1 What various hindrances we meet
In coming to the mercy-seat?
Yet who that knows the worth of prayer
But wishes to be often there?

2 Prayer makes the darkest cloud withdraw;
Prayer climbs the ladder Jacob saw,
Gives exercise to faith and love,
Brings every blessing from above.

3 Restraining prayer, we cease to fight;
Prayer makes the Christian's armor bright;
And Satan trembles when he sees
The weakest saint upon his knees.

4 When Moses stood with arms spread wide,
Success was found on Israel's side;
But when, through weariness, they failed,
That moment Amalek prevailed.

5 Have you no words? Ah! think again;
Words flow apace when you complain,
And fill your fellow-creatures' ears
With the sad tale of all your cares.

6 Were half the breath thus vainly spent,
To heaven in supplication sent,
Your cheerful song would oftener be,
"Hear what the Lord hath done for me!