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Show how naturally does the Christian turn to Him who says, "Ask of me and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance;" and praying thus unto the Lord who is "the searcher of hearts" and who "desires truth in the inward parts," how again the thought is urged by the loving heart to see that these prayers are acceptable, "effectual," in that they are ready to do whatsoever the father showeth them, to accomplish the end sought, whether to actively carry forward the missionary work by standing at these posts at home, or by going to the outworks, there to bear the Light which is to turn their darkness into day. In receiving at one time letters from many missionaries, and those scattered all around the globe, we were struck with this one remark common to all, "There is no sweeter or more cheering word ever borne to us than that our friends at home are praying for us and for the work dear to all who are in the Lord." The prayer of faith, then, strengthens the heart of the missionary while it complies with God's conditions for a blessing upon them, his chosen workers, and upon those who pray. From more than one or two sources the tidings have come to us during the last year of the unprecedented ease and rapidity with which Miss Haven was gaining command of the Chinese language, her skill in its use being regarded by her associates as marvellous. Those who were at the farewell meeting when she left us have the key to this success. She said, "Pray always for me, that utterance may be given unto me, to make known the mystery of the gospel," a request which results prove fell not upon idle ears or irresponsible hearts. Is it, then, a little thing to pray for our missionaries and their work? So are we made co-workers with them, and also with God himself. But are we praying for our life-members who are to learn about and pray for our work? Do we regard them as a part of the means to be used by the Lord in a more special way than those not related to us? Do we hold them in our hearts and prayers as in any way set apart to the needs of the work? If there is any meaning in the name by which we call them, if they are of the family, and for life, I fear |