In this manner, therefore, pray…

What I say here is particularly related to prayer that accompanies the preaching of the Word and anticipates the saving of men’s souls; the implication, though, is unbounded, extending to prayers over broken bones, fearful expectations, intemperate weather, and lost socks. The statement that raises this discussion is “assuredly I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name, He will give you.” And the question that springs from the statement is “What in the world is He talking about?”

The sovereignty of God and the necessity of prayer are truths juxtaposed. These are a paradox that refuses the natural mind full admittance into the great hall where conductor and symphony create their magic. But the music is no less real for our being unable to see its conception, and the closed doors only heighten the piquancy of the melody. Let us assume, without taking the time to explain or support, that both themes, sovereignty and prayer, are completely established and unconditionally supported by Scripture. The former has determinedly required and simultaneously instigated, compelled and enabled the latter; the latter, rightly applied, supports the authority of the former, seeking to see and speak by its light and vocabulary, appealing on the basis of God’s character to His good intention and foreknowledge. Prayer does not require anything be left un-ordained, sovereignty does not preclude our asking “whatever.” The one leads to the other, the other points back to the one.

more as i write it