Verse 1

Prayer is the soul's sincere desire Uttered or unexpressed The motion of a hidden fire That trembles in the breast

Verse 2

Prayer is the burden of a sigh The falling of a tear The upward glancing of an eye When none but God is near

Verse 3

Prayer is the simplest form of speech That infant lips can try Prayer, the sublimest strains that reach The Majesty on high

Verse 4

Prayer is the Christian's vital breath The Christian's native air His watchword at the gates of death He enters heav'n with prayer

Verse 5

O thou by whom we come to God The Life, the Truth, the Way The path of prayer thyself hast trod Lord, teach us how to pray.

Verse 6

Nor prayer is made on earth alone The Holy Spirit pleads And Jesus at the Father's throne For sinners intercedes.

Verse 7

Prayer is the contrite sinner's voice Returning from his ways While angels in their songs rejoice And cry, Behold! He prays!