It is not enough to begin to pray, nor to pray aright; nor is it enough to continue for a time to pray; but we must patiently, believingly continue in prayer until we obtain an answer.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: The essence encapsulated in the quote, "It is not enough to begin to pray, nor to pray aright; nor is it enough to continue for a time to pray; but we must patiently, believingly continue in prayer until we obtain an answer," delves into the profound nature of prayer as a process that demands more than mere initiation. At its core, this quote invites contemplation on the depth and sincerity required in the act of prayer, emphasizing the importance of patience, faith, and persistent belief.
Firstly, the quote asserts that the commencement of prayer is but a preliminary step, acknowledging that the act of praying is not a one-time event but an ongoing journey. It implies that true connection through prayer is not established through sporadic or superficial attempts; instead, it demands a sustained and committed engagement. This challenges the notion that merely going through the motions of prayer, without genuine intent, may fall short of realizing the full potential that prayer has to offer.
Furthermore, the quote highlights the significance of praying correctly, suggesting that there is a right way to engage with the divine. This alludes to the idea that prayer is not a mechanical process but a spiritual dialogue that requires earnestness, humility, and a genuine connection with the transcendent. It suggests that the manner in which one prays is as crucial as the act itself, emphasizing the need for authenticity and sincerity in addressing the divine.
The emphasis on continuity in prayer serves as a reminder of the temporal aspect of the spiritual journey. It suggests that patience is an indispensable virtue, as answers to prayers may not be immediate. The use of the word "patiently" underscores the idea that the fruits of prayer often unfold in their own time, requiring a steadfast and unwavering belief in the efficacy of prayer even in the face of apparent silence.
Belief is a cornerstone of the quote, emphasizing that the efficacy of prayer is closely tied to the unwavering faith one maintains during the process. The use of the term "believingly" underscores the transformative power of faith, suggesting that true communion with the divine is facilitated by a trust that goes beyond the visible outcomes. This element of belief implies that prayer is not just a ritualistic act but a profound expression of faith that can lead to a deeper spiritual connection.
In conclusion, the quote provides a comprehensive perspective on the nature of prayer, urging individuals to go beyond the surface level, embrace authenticity, maintain patience, and foster unwavering faith. It suggests that the journey of prayer is not merely a means to an end but a continuous and evolving process, where the sincerity of intent and the depth of belief play pivotal roles in realizing the transformative potential of prayer.
Who said the quote?
The quote "It is not enough to begin to pray, nor to pray aright; nor is it enough to continue for a time to pray; but we must patiently, believingly continue in prayer until we obtain an answer." is often attributed to George Muller (Quotes). George Muller was a compassionate Christian evangelist and philanthropist who cared for thousands of orphans in 19th-century England.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
