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

2 Prayer makes the darken'd cloud withdraw,
Prayer climes 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 armour bright;
And Satan trembles when he sees
The weakest saint upon his knees.

4 While Moses stood with arms spread wide,
Success was found on Israel's side;
But when through weariness they fail'd,
That moment Amalek prevail'd.

5 Have you no words? Ah, think again,
Words flow apace when you complain,
And fill your fellow-creature's ear
With the sad tale of all your care.

6 Were half the breath thus vainly spent
To Heav'n in supplication sent,
Your cheerful song would oft'ner be,
"Hear what the Lord has done for me."