1 What various hind'rances we meet
In coming to a mercy-seat!
Yet who that knows the worth of pray'r
But wishes to be often there.

2 Prayer makes the darkened clouds 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 armor 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 thro' 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 a fellow-creature's ear
With the sad tale of all your care.