论祈祷(2002)E

第11章 蒙应允的祈祷
§1 第11章 蒙应允的祈祷
§2 Chap. 11—Answered Prayer
§3 我们如果祈求,上帝就会应允——属世的智慧还教训人说,祈祷是不必要的。科学界的人说,祷告不能得到真实的答复;因为这是与自然律相违的,是一种奇迹,而奇迹根本是不可能有的。他们说这个宇宙是被一些固定的自然律所支配,连上帝也不能作什么与这些定律相违背的事。这样,按着他们的见解,上帝是受祂自己的律法所束缚的,似乎是说上帝律法的运用,足以限制祂的自由权。这种教训是与圣经的见证相反的。昔日基督与门徒岂不是行过奇迹吗?这大有慈悲的同一位救主,今日依然活着。祂乐意垂听人们有信心的祈祷,如同祂从前在人间生活的时候一样。自然力是与超自然力合作的。上帝的计划原来是要我们凭着信心祈祷,祂就必应允;反之,我们若不祈求,祂就不赐给我们了。(GC 525){Pr 96.1}[1]
§4 God Will Answer, if We Ask—Worldly wisdom teaches that prayer is not essential. Men of science claim that there can be no real answer to prayer; that this would be a violation of law, a miracle, and that miracles have no existence. The universe, say they, is governed by fixed laws, and God Himself does nothing contrary to these laws. Thus they represent God as bound by His own laws—as if the operation of divine laws could exclude divine freedom. Such teaching is opposed to the testimony of the Scriptures. Were not miracles wrought by Christ and His apostles? The same compassionate Saviour lives today, and He is as willing to listen to the prayer of faith as when He walked visibly among men. The natural cooperates with the supernatural. It is a part of God’s plan to grant us, in answer to the prayer of faith, that which He would not bestow did we not thus ask.—(The Great Controversy, 525.){Pr 96.1}[1]
§5 你有机会遇见教会的弟兄时,就当告诉他们在上帝和人心灵之间需要保持交流的畅通。告诉他们如果能用心灵和声音去祈祷,上帝就会回应其祈祷。告诉他们不要忽视自己的宗教责任。要劝弟兄们祈祷。如果我们想寻见,就必须寻找;想得到,就必须祈求;想有人给我们开门,就必须敲门。(ST,1890.2.1)?{Pr 96.2}[2]
§6 When you are privileged to meet with your brethren in the church, tell them of the necessity of keeping open the channel of communication between God and the soul. Tell them that if they will find heart and voice to pray, God will find answers to their?prayers. Tell them not to neglect their religious duties. Exhort the brethren to pray. We must seek if we would find, we must ask if we would receive, we must knock if we would have the door opened unto us.—(The Signs of the Times, February 10, 1890.)?{Pr 96.2}[2]
§7 耶稣并没有呼唤我们去跟从祂,又把我们撇下。如果我们献身为祂服务,就绝不会处身在祂所没有预备好的地方。我们的境遇不论如何,总要一位向导来指引我们的路。我们不论多么困惑,总有一位可靠的顾问。不论遭到怎样的忧愁,丧亡和孤独,总有一位同情我们的朋友。如果我们因无知而走错了路,基督绝不会离弃我们。……{Pr 97.1}[3]
§8 Jesus does not call on us to follow Him, and then forsake us. If we surrender our lives to His service, we can never be placed in a position for which God has not made provision. Whatever may be our situation, we have a Guide to direct our way; whatever our perplexities, we have a sure Counselor; whatever our sorrow, bereavement, or loneliness, we have a sympathizing Friend. If in our ignorance we make missteps, Christ does not leave us....{Pr 97.1}[3]
§9 “你们祷告,无论求什么,只要信,就必得着”(太21:22)。(GW 263){Pr 97.2}[4]
§10 “All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” [Matthew 21:22.]—(Gospel Workers, 263.){Pr 97.2}[4]
§11 上帝的福气临到是谦卑信靠的结果——与天上保持密切的关系,会使你的忠诚有正确的方向,成为你成功的基础。你的依赖之心会驱使你祈祷,你的责任感会使你努力。祈祷而努力,努力而祈祷,会成为你的职责。你必须祈祷,把一切效能和赞美都归于上帝。你必须工作,好像责任都是你自己的。如果你需要能力,你可以得到它,它正等着你去支取。只有相信上帝,接受祂的话,凭着信心行动,福气才会临到。{Pr 97.3}[5]
§12 God’s Blessings Will Come as a Result of Humble Faith—A close connection with heaven will give the right tone to your fidelity and will be the ground of your success. Your feeling of dependence will drive you to prayer, and your sense of duty summon you to effort. Prayer and effort, effort and prayer, will be the business of your life. You must pray as though the efficiency and praise were all due to God, and labor as though duty were all your own. If you want power you may have it; it is waiting your draft upon it. Only believe in God, take Him at His word, act by faith, and blessings will come.{Pr 97.3}[5]
§13 在这件事上,天才、逻辑、口才没有帮助。上帝接纳有谦卑,信靠、痛悔之心的人,听他们的祷告。有了上帝的帮助,一切障碍都会克服。多少有才能,有学问的人放在负责的位置上都失败了,而一些知识较低,环境又不利的人,却取得了奇妙的成功。秘决在于:前者信靠自己,后者与上帝联合。祂会给于奇妙的指导,在实行祂旨意时大有能力。(4T 538, 539.){Pr 97.4}[6]
§14 In this matter, genius, logic, and eloquence will not avail. Those who have a humble, trusting, contrite heart, God accepts, and hears their prayer; and when God helps, all obstacles will be overcome. How many men of great natural abilities and high scholarships have failed when placed in positions of responsibility, while those of feebler intellect, with less favorable surroundings, have been wonderfully successful. The secret was: The former trusted to themselves, while the latter united with Him who is wonderful in counsel and mighty in working to accomplish what He will.—(Testimonies for the Church 4:538, 539.){Pr 97.4}[6]
§15 由圣灵所创作的简单祈祷会通过半开的天门上达于那扇敞开的门,基督论到那扇门说:我已经开了,而且没有人能关。这些祷告与基督之完美的香交织在一起,如同馨香的香气上达到父那里,而且必蒙应允。(6T 467.)T{Pr 97.5}[7]
§16 The simple prayers indited by the Holy Spirit will ascend through?the gates ajar, the open door which Christ has declared: I have opened, and no man can shut. These prayers, mingled with the incense of the perfection of Christ, will ascend as fragrance to the Father, and answers will come.—(Testimonies for the Church 6:467.)?{Pr 97.5}[7]
§17 出于孩子般单纯和信心的祷告必蒙应允——“人若渴了,可以到我这里来喝。”“人若喝我所赐的水,就永远不渴。我所赐的水要在他里头成为泉源,直涌到永生”(约7:37;4:14)。{Pr 98.1}[8]
§18 Prayers of Child-Like Simplicity and Faith Will Be Answered—“If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink.” “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.”?John 7:37;?John 4:14.{Pr 98.1}[8]
§19 我们有这样的应许摆在前面而不去领受,宁愿因缺乏生命水而灵性枯干凋萎,那真是咎由自取了。只要我们肯来到耶稣面前,象儿童到父母面前那样天真地要求祂所应许的,并且相信一定能够得到,那么我们就可以得着。 (9T. 179.){Pr 98.2}[9]
§20 If, with these promises before us, we choose to remain parched and withered for want of the water of life, it is our own fault. If we would come to Christ with the simplicity of a child coming to its earthly parents, and ask for the things that He has promised, believing that we receive them, we should have them.—(Testimonies for the Church 9:179.){Pr 98.2}[9]
§21 祈祷和相信——上帝并没有说你们求一次就可以得着。祂嘱咐我们要不住地祈求,不倦地坚持祷告。这种恒切的祈求的人有更诚恳的态度,更加盼望所求的东西。基督曾在拉撒路的坟墓旁对马大说:“你若信,就必看见上帝的荣耀”(约11:40)。{Pr 98.3}[10]
§22 Pray and Believe—God does not say, Ask once, and you shall receive. He bids us ask. Unwearyingly persist in prayer. The persistent asking brings the petitioner into a more earnest attitude, and gives him an increased desire to receive the things for which he asks. Christ said to Martha at the grave of Lazarus, “If thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God.”?John 11:40.{Pr 98.3}[10]
§23 但是许多人缺乏活泼的信心,因此看不见上帝能力更多的显现。他们软弱是因他们的不信。他们对于自己行为的信心,过于他们对上帝为他们所行之事的信心。他们把自己交给自己保守。他们出谋划策,却很少祈祷,对上帝也没有什么真正的信赖。他们自以为有信心,其实这不过是一时的冲动。他们没有认识到自己的需要,或没有认识到上帝乐意施恩,所以没有坚持不懈地在上帝面前陈述自己的要求。{Pr 98.4}[11]
§24 But many have not a living faith. This is why they do not see more of the power of God. Their weakness is the result of their unbelief. They have more faith in their own working than in the working of God for them. They take themselves into their own keeping. They plan and devise, but pray little, and have little real trust in God. They think they have faith, but it is only the impulse of the moment. Failing to realize their own need, or God’s willingness to give, they do not persevere in keeping their requests before the Lord.{Pr 98.4}[11]
§25 我们的祈祷要像那在半夜向邻舍求饼的人那样诚恳迫切。我们越诚恳而坚持不懈地祈求,我们与基督的属灵联系就越紧密。我们的信心越大,所领受的福分也就越多。?{Pr 98.5}[12]
§26 Our prayers are to be as earnest and persistent as was the petition of the needy friend who asked for the loaves at midnight. The more earnestly and steadfastly we ask, the closer will be our spiritual union with Christ. We shall receive increased?blessings because we have increased faith.?{Pr 98.5}[12]
§27 我们的本分是祈祷而相信。要警醒祷告。要警醒并与听祷告的上帝合作。要记住“我们是与上帝同工的”(林后3:9)。你的言行要与你的祈祷相称。当考验临到时,显明你的信心是真诚的,或你的祈祷只是一种形式,这对于你是至关重要的。(COL.145, 146.){Pr 99.1}[13]
§28 Our part is to pray and believe. Watch unto prayer. Watch, and co-operate with the prayer-hearing God. Bear in mind that “we are labourers together with God.”?1 Corinthians 3:9. Speak and act in harmony with your prayers. It will make an infinite difference with you whether trial shall prove your faith to be genuine, or show that your prayers are only a form.—(Christ’s Object Lessons, 145, 146.){Pr 99.1}[13]
§29 凭着信心祈祷,就会得蒙应允——上帝所赐的教训,人若好好地领受了,总是能在适当的时候得到帮助。你当靠赖上帝。当多多祈祷,而且相信。靠托,希望,相信,紧握着那位具有无限权能者的手,你就必得胜有余了。{Pr 99.2}[14]
§30 Pray in Faith and Answers Will Come—The lessons that God sends will always, if well learned, bring help in due time. Put your trust in God. Pray much, and believe. Trusting, hoping, believing, holding fast the hand of Infinite Power, you will be more than conquerors.{Pr 99.2}[14]
§31 真实的工人无不凭着信心行事工作。在善恶两大势力斗争非常激烈之时,他们有时不免因注意圣工进展的迟缓,以致生出厌倦之心。但是只要他们不灰心,不丧胆,终必得见烟消云散,拯救的应许得以实现。透过撒但所包围他们的云雾,他们就必得见那公义日头的荣耀光辉。{Pr 99.3}[15]
§32 True workers walk and work by faith. Sometimes they grow weary with watching the slow advance of the work when the battle wages strong between the powers of good and evil. But if they refuse to fail or be discouraged they will see the clouds breaking away and the promise of deliverance fulfilling. Through the mist with which Satan has surrounded them, they will see the shining of the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness.{Pr 99.3}[15]
§33 当凭着信心工作,将结果交托上帝。当凭着信心祈祷,祂奇妙的神能就必答复。有时看来,你似乎是不能成功的。但仍需工作而且相信,使信心,希望,与勇敢,和你的努力配合起来。要先竭尽一己之所能,然后等候主宣述祂的信实,祂必使祂的话成就。要等候,并不是焦躁的悬虑,而是抱着无畏的信心与毫不动摇的信赖而等候。(7T 245){Pr 99.4}[16]
§34 Work in faith, and leave results with God. Pray in faith, and the mystery of His providence will bring its answer. At times it may seem that you cannot succeed. But work and believe, putting into your efforts faith, hope, and courage. After doing what you can, wait for the Lord, declaring His faithfulness, and He will bring His word to pass. Wait, not in fretful anxiety, but in undaunted faith and unshaken trust.—(Testimonies for the Church 7:245.){Pr 99.4}[16]
§35 你可以从上帝那里获得力量,祂能帮助你。祂能赐你恩典和属天的智慧。如果你凭着信心求,就必得着。但你必须警醒祷告。警醒,祷告,作工,应当成为你的座右铭。 (2T.427.){Pr 99.5}[17]
§36 There is strength to be obtained of God. He can help. He can give grace and heavenly wisdom. If you ask in faith, you will receive; but you must watch unto prayer. Watch, pray, work, should be your watchword.—(Testimonies for the Church 2:427.){Pr 99.5}[17]
§37 上帝已打发我们在祂的葡萄园里做工。我们的责任就是竭尽全力做工。“早晨要撒你的种,晚上也不要歇你的手,因为你不知道那一样发旺,或是早撒的,或是晚撒的,或是两样都好”(传11:6)。我们的信心太小了。我们限制了以色列的圣者。我们应当感谢上帝竟然屈尊使用我们任何一个人作祂的工具。任何本着信心的热切祈祷都会得到上帝的答复。答复可能并没有按照我们所期待的临到,然而必定会在我们最需要的时候临到。“你们若常在我里面,我的话也常在你们里面,凡你们所愿意的,祈求就给你们成就”(约15:7)。(RH.1897.3.23)?{Pr 99.6}[18]
§38 God has sent us to work in His vineyard. It is our duty to do all we can. “In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either?this or that.” We have too little faith. We limit the Holy One of Israel. We should be grateful that He condescends to use any of us as His instruments. For every earnest prayer put up in faith, an answer will be returned. It may not come just as we have expected; but it will come at the very time when we most need it. “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.”(The Review and Herald, March 23, 1897.)?{Pr 99.6}[18]
§39 我们如果有时间祈祷,上帝就有时间应允——每一次诚恳地祈求恩典和力量,都必蒙垂听。……凡你们自己无力成就的事,求上帝为你们成就吧。凡事要告诉耶稣。要将你们心中的秘密呈现在祂面前;因为祂的慧眼鉴察你心灵的深处,洞悉你的意念犹如诵读敞开的书本一般。当你为自己心灵的益处向祂祈求所需要的东西时,只要信是得着的,就必得着。你要全心全意地接受祂的恩赐;因为耶稣受死,使你可以获得天上的珍宝,并且至终在上帝的国中与众天使共得一个家。{Pr 100.1}[19]
§40 If We Find Time to Pray, God Will Find Time to Answer—Every earnest petition for grace and strength will be answered.... Ask God to do for you those things that you cannot do for yourselves. Tell Jesus everything. Lay open before Him the secrets of your heart; for His eye searches the inmost recesses of the soul, and He reads your thoughts as an open book. When you have asked for the things that are necessary for your soul’s good, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them. Accept His gifts with your whole heart; for Jesus has died that you might have the precious things of heaven as your own, and at last find a home with the heavenly angels in the kingdom of God.{Pr 100.1}[19]
§41 你如果有时间发声祈祷,上帝就有时间发声应允你。(ML 16){Pr 100.2}[20]
§42 If you will find voice and time to pray, God will find time and voice to answer.—(My Life Today, 16.){Pr 100.2}[20]
§43 为上帝应允你的祷告而高兴——要本着信心祈祷。一定要保证使你的生活与你的祈求相和谐,好使你可以领受你所祈求的福气。不要让你的信心软弱,因为所领受的福气与你所运用的信心是成比例的。“照着你们的信给你们成全了吧。”“你们祷告,无论求什么,只要信,就必得着”(太9:29;21:22)。要祈祷,相信,欢喜快乐。要向上帝唱诗赞美,因为祂已垂听你的祷告。祂怎样说你就怎样信。“那应许我们的是信实的”(来10:23)。没有一个恳切的祈求是徒然的。管道是敞开通畅的;恩典在涌流。它带来医治的能力,涌出生命、健康和救恩的恢复洪流。(7T 274){Pr 100.3}[21]
§44 Rejoice That God Has Answered Your Prayers—Pray in faith. And be sure to bring your lives into harmony with your petitions, that you may receive the blessings for which you pray. Let not your faith weaken, for the blessings received are proportionate to the faith exercised. “According to your faith be it unto you.”“All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.”?Matthew 9:29;Matthew 21:22. Pray, believe, rejoice. Sing praises to God because He has answered your prayers. Take Him at His word. “He is faithful that promised.”?Hebrews 10:23. Not one sincere supplication is lost. The channel is open; the stream is flowing. It carries with it healing properties, pouring forth a restoring current of life and health and salvation.—(Testimonies for the Church 7:274.){Pr 100.3}[21]
§45 我们祷告的热切是上帝会应允的一个保证——耶稣基督是赐给天下的惟一的名,使我们可以靠着得救。当人热烈恳切地向上帝发出祷告时,在那种热烈和恳切中就有一种来自上帝的保证,祂就要极其丰富地应允所献的祈祷,超过我们所求所想的。我们必须不仅奉耶稣的名祷告,而且要藉着圣灵的激发与灵感。这说明了“圣灵亲自用说不出来的叹息替我们祷告”(罗8:26)这节经文的意思。必须本着恳切的信心献上请求。然后这些请求才会抵达施恩座。祷告要恒切。上帝并不说:只要祷告一次,我就会应允你。祂的话乃是:要祷告,要恒切祷告,相信你得着了所求的,你就必得着;我必应允你。(GH 1902.5.28){Pr 101.1}[22]
§46 The Very Intensity of Our Prayers Is a Pledge That God Will Answer—When a man breathes an intensely earnest prayer to God (Jesus Christ is the only name given under heaven whereby we can be saved), there is in that intensity and earnestness a pledge from God that He is about to answer that prayer exceeding abundantly, above all that we can ask or think. We must not only pray in the name of Jesus, but by the inspiration and kindling of the Holy Spirit. This explains what is meant when it is said, “the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which can not be uttered.” The petitions must be offered in earnest faith. Then they will reach the mercy-seat. Unwearyingly persist in prayer. God does not say, Pray once, and I will answer you. His word is pray, be instant in prayer, believing ye have the things ye ask, and ye shall receive them; I will answer you.—(The Gospel Herald, May 28, 1902.){Pr 101.1}[22]
§47 祈祷蒙应允的条件——上帝垂听和应允我们的祈祷,是有一定条件的。首先我们必须感到需要祂的帮助。祂应许说:“我要将水浇灌口渴的人,将河浇灌干旱之地”(赛44:3)。饥渴幕义寻求上帝的人必得满足。我们的心必须向圣灵的感化敞开。否则就不能领受上帝的福分。{Pr 101.2}[23]
§48 Conditions to Answered Prayer—There are certain conditions upon which we may expect that God will hear and answer our prayers. One of the first of these is that we feel our need of help from Him. He has promised, “I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground.”?Isaiah 44:3. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, who long after God, may be sure that they will be filled. The heart must be open to the Spirit’s influence, or God’s blessing cannot be received.{Pr 101.2}[23]
§49 我们的巨大需要,本身就是我们祈祷最有力的理由。但我们必须祈求主在这些事上帮助我们。祂说:“你们祈求,就给你们。”“上帝既不爱惜自己的儿子为我们众人舍了,岂不也把万物和祂一同白白的赐给我们吗”(太7:7;罗8:32)? {Pr 101.3}[24]
§50 Our great need is itself an argument and pleads most eloquently in our behalf. But the Lord is to be sought unto to do these things for us. He says, “Ask, and it shall be given you.” And “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?”?Matthew 7:7;?Romans 8:32.{Pr 101.3}[24]
§51 我们心中若注重罪孽,依恋已知的罪孽,主就不会垂听我们。但出于痛悔之心的祈求必蒙悦纳。我们如果纠正一切已知的错误,就可以确信上帝必应允我们的祈求。我们自己的善行永不能拯救我们。唯有耶稣的功劳能拯救我们,祂的宝血能洁净我们。然而我们自己仍然有事要做。那就是满足蒙悦纳的条件。{Pr 101.4}[25]
§52 If we regard iniquity in our hearts, if we cling to any known sin, the Lord will not hear us; but the prayer of the penitent, contrite soul is always accepted. When all known wrongs are righted, we may believe that God will answer our petitions. Our own merit will never commend us to the favor of God; it is the worthiness of Jesus that will save us, His blood that will cleanse us; yet we have a work to do in complying with the conditions of acceptance.{Pr 101.4}[25]
§53 使祈祷生效的另一个条件是信心。“因为到上帝面前来的人.必须信有上帝,且信祂赏赐那寻求祂的人”(来11:6)。耶稣对祂的门徒说:“凡你们祷告祈求的,无论是什么,只要信是得着的,就必得着”(可1l:24)。我们相信祂的话吗? {Pr 102.1}[26]
§54 Another element of prevailing prayer is faith. “He that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.”?Hebrews 11:6. Jesus said to His disciples, “What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.”?Mark 11:24. Do we take Him at His word?{Pr 102.1}[26]
§55 主的保证是宽广无边的。祂信守自己的承诺。如果我们没有立时得到所求的,仍要相信主已垂听,并必应允我们的祈求。我们眼光短浅.常有错误,有时所求的未必都能造福于我们。我们的天父本着爱心,将最符合我们利益的东西赐给我们。如果我们的眼光得到上帝真光的启发,看到事物的真相,就会发现祂所给我们的,正是我们所需要的。我们在祷告似乎没有回音的时候,仍要坚信主的应许。因为时候一到,上帝必将我们最需要的福分赐给我们。但如果我们要上帝完全按照我们所求的给我们,那就是妄想了。上帝太智慧,不会出任何差错。祂太善良,决不会向行义的人偏留任何好东西。所以你们可以大胆地信靠祂。即使你没有看到自己的祷告立时得到应允,也当相信祂可靠的应许:“你们祈求,就给你们”(太7:7)。{Pr 102.2}[27]
§56 The assurance is broad and unlimited, and He is faithful who has promised. When we do not receive the very things we asked for, at the time we ask, we are still to believe that the Lord hears and that He will answer our prayers. We are so erring and shortsighted that we sometimes ask for things that would not be a blessing to us, and our heavenly Father in love answers our prayers by giving us that which will be for our highest good—that which we ourselves would desire if with vision divinely enlightened we could see all things as they really are. When our prayers seem not to be answered, we are to cling to the promise; for the time of answering will surely come, and we shall receive the blessing we need most. But to claim that prayer will always be answered in the very way and for the particular thing that we desire, is presumption. God is too wise to err, and too good to withhold any good thing from them that walk uprightly. Then do not fear to trust Him, even though you do not see the immediate answer to your prayers. Rely upon His sure promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you.”{Pr 102.2}[27]
§57 如果我们缺乏信心,陷于疑惑恐惧之中,或者试图解决自己所未能看清的问题,就只能加深疑虑。但我们在感到自己软弱无奈的时候,如果能怀着信靠的心来到上帝面前,向无所不知的主阐明我们的需要,那位监察万有,按祂的旨意和真道治理万有的主,必乐意垂听我们的呼求,让真光照入我们的心。藉着诚恳的祈求,我们得以与无穷上帝的心联结在一起。我们或许不能即时看到救赎主以同情和爱心垂顾我们的显著凭据,但实情确是如此。我们可能感觉不到祂明显的抚摸,但祂的确怀着仁爱和慈悯,按手在我们身上。{Pr 102.3}[28]
§58 If we take counsel with our doubts and fears, or try to solve everything that we cannot see clearly, before we have faith, perplexities will only increase and deepen. But if we come to God, feeling helpless and dependent, as we really are, and in humble, trusting faith make known our wants to Him whose knowledge is infinite, who sees everything in creation, and who governs everything by His will and word, He can and will attend to our cry, and will let light shine into our hearts. Through sincere prayer we are brought into connection with the mind of the Infinite. We may have no remarkable evidence at the time that the face of our Redeemer is bending over us in compassion and love, but this is even so. We may not feel His visible touch, but His hand is upon us in love and pitying tenderness.{Pr 102.3}[28]
§59 当我们向上帝祈求怜悯和福分的时候,心中须怀有仁爱和饶恕人的精神。我们怎么能一边祷告“免我们的债。如同我们免了人的债”(太6:12),一边又抱着不肯饶恕人的精神呢?如果我们希望自己的祷告得蒙垂听,我们要得到饶恕,就得以同样的态度,在同样的范围里饶恕别人。{Pr 103.1}[29]
§60 When we come to ask mercy and blessing from God we should have a spirit of love and forgiveness in our own hearts. How can we pray, “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors,” and yet indulge an unforgiving spirit??Matthew 6:12. If we expect our own prayers to be heard we must forgive others in the same manner and to the same extent as we hope to be forgiven.{Pr 103.1}[29]
§61 恒心也是祷告蒙悦纳的一个条件。如果我们要在信心和经验中长进,就必须经常祷告。我们“祷告要恒切。”“要恒切祷告,在此警醒感恩”(罗12:12;西4:2)。彼得勉励信徒要“谨慎自守,警醒祷告”(彼前4:7)。保罗说:“凡事藉着祷告、祈求和感谢,将你们所要的告诉上帝”(腓4:6)。犹大说:“亲爱的弟兄啊,你们却要在圣灵里祷告,保守自己常在上帝的爱中”(犹20,21)。 (SC 95-97.){Pr 103.2}[30]
§62 Perseverance in prayer has been made a condition of receiving. We must pray always if we would grow in faith and experience. We are to be “instant in prayer,” to “continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.”?Romans 12:12;?Colossians 4:2. Peter exhorts believers to be “sober, and watch unto prayer.”?1 Peter 4:7. Paul directs, “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”?Philippians 4:6. “But ye, beloved,” says Jude, “praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the love of God.”?Jude 20, 21.—(Steps to Christ, 95-97.){Pr 103.2}[30]
§63 若是我们半心半意地顺从祂,祂的应许就不会实现在我们身上。(MH 227){Pr 103.3}[31]
§64 If we render to Him only a partial, halfhearted obedience, His promises will not be fulfilled to us.—(The Ministry of Healing, 227.){Pr 103.3}[31]
§65 若想祈祷蒙应允,我们必须实践我们的祷告——我们要祈祷,警醒祷告,好使我们在生活中没有矛盾之处。我们必须向别人表明:我们明白警醒祷告意味着在上帝面前实践我们的祷告,以便祂应允这些祷告。(1SM 116, 117.){Pr 103.4}[32]
§66 We Must Live Our Prayers if They Are to Be Answered—We are to pray and watch unto prayer, that there may be no inconsistency in our lives. We must not fail to show others that we understand that watching unto prayer means living our prayers before God, that He may answer them.—(Selected Messages 1:116, 117.){Pr 103.4}[32]
§67 我们的行为若与祷告相矛盾,祷告就没有效果——“你们若常在我里面,我的话也常在你们里面,凡你们所愿意的,祈求,就给你们成就”(约15:7)。你们祷告时可以提出这个应许。我们有特权带着圣洁的勇气来到祂面前。我们若诚心求祂光照我们,祂就会垂听和应允我们。但我们的生活必须与我们的祷告相符合。我们的行为若与祷告相矛盾,祷告就没有效果。我曾见到一位父亲,读了一段圣经并跪下祷告,却往往刚一起身,就开口责骂儿女。上帝怎么能应允他刚才的祷告呢?父母如果在责骂儿女之后献上祷告,这样的祷告能让儿女受益吗?不会的,除非是向上帝认罪的祷告。(CG 499){Pr 103.5}[33]
§68 Prayer Is of No Avail if the Life Does Not Match the Prayer—“If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” When you pray, present this promise. It is our privilege to come to Him with holy boldness. As in sincerity we ask Him to let His light shine upon us, He will hear and answer us. But we must live in harmony with our prayers. They are of no avail if we walk contrary to them. I have seen a father who, after reading a portion of scripture and offering prayer, would often, almost as soon as he had risen from his knees, begin to scold his children. How could God answer the?prayer he had offered? And if, after scolding his children, a father offers prayer, does that prayer benefit the children? No; not unless it is a prayer of confession to God.—(Child Guidance, 499.)?{Pr 103.5}[33]
§69 祈祷若想蒙应允,就必须包括赞美——我们一切的灵修操练,难道一直都是在作请求与领受么?难道我们始终是想到自己的需要,而不念及自己所受到的益处么?难道我们一直领受祂的恩典,而从不表示感激上帝之心,从不因祂为我们所作的事而赞美祂么?我们祷告不会嫌太多,但却吝于表示感谢之意。如果上帝的慈悲仁爱激励我们多作感谢及赞美,我们在祷告上就必有更多的能力了。我们也必在上帝的爱中更丰富,并要为更多的福气而赞美祂了。你们这埋怨上帝没有听你们祈祷的人哪,应当改变你们祈祷的方式,将赞美搀入你们的祈求中去吧。何时你们思念祂的恩惠慈爱,就必发现祂顾念你们的需要了。{Pr 104.1}[34]
§70 Praise Needs to Be Included if Our Prayers Are to Be Answered—Shall all our devotional exercises consist in asking and receiving? Shall we be always thinking of our wants and never of the benefits we receive? Shall we be recipients of His mercies and never express our gratitude to God, never praise Him for what He has done for us? We do not pray any too much, but we are too sparing of giving thanks. If the loving-kindness of God called forth more thanksgiving and praise, we would have far more power in prayer. We would abound more and more in the love of God and have more bestowed to praise Him for. You who complain that God does not hear your prayers, change your present order and mingle praise with your petitions. When you consider His goodness and mercies you will find that He will consider your wants.{Pr 104.1}[34]
§71 务要祷告,恳切而不住地祷告,但也不可忘记了赞美。 (5T. 317.){Pr 104.2}[35]
§72 Pray, pray earnestly and without ceasing, but do not forget to praise.—(Testimonies for the Church 5:317.){Pr 104.2}[35]
§73 管家不忠心可能是祈祷得不到应允的原因——上帝既然赐予我们一切的福惠,就有权从我们的财物中取回一部分,用来维持福音的传播。我们也通过对上帝的回报,来表示我们感谢祂的恩赐。但我们如果扣留了属于上帝的那一部分,又怎能向祂求福呢?我们在属世的财物上尚且不能作忠心的管家,又怎能希望祂把天国的财物交托我们呢?祈祷得不到应允;原因也许就在这里。(COL 144){Pr 104.3}[36]
§74 Unfaithfulness in Stewardship May Be a Cause of Unanswered Prayer—As the Giver of every blessing, God claims a certain portion of all we possess. This is His provision to sustain the preaching of the gospel. And by making this return to God, we are to show our appreciation of His gifts. But if we withhold from Him that which is His own, how can we expect Him to entrust us with the things of heaven? It may be that here is the secret of unanswered prayer.—(Christ’s Object Lessons, 144.){Pr 104.3}[36]
§75 恳求上帝实现祂的应许,却又不履行应许的条件,就是侮慢祂——上帝应许的实现是有条件的。祈祷决不能代替本分。基督说:“你们若爱我,就必遵守我的命令。”“有了我的命令又遵守的,这人就是爱我的;爱我的,必蒙我父爱他,我也要爱他,并且要向他显现”(约14:15,21)。人一方面恳求上帝实现祂的应许,却又不履行应许的条件,就是侮慢了耶和华。他们提说基督的名字作为实现应许的根据,却没有做表明自己信靠基督并且爱祂的事。(COL 143){Pr 104.4}[37]
§76 We Insult God by Claiming the Promise Without Meeting the Conditions—There are conditions to the fulfillment of God’s promises, and prayer can never take the place of duty. “If ye love Me,” Christ says, “Keep My commandments.”“He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me; and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him,?and will manifest Myself to him.”?John 14:15, 21. Those who bring their petitions to God, claiming His promise while they do not comply with the conditions, insult Jehovah. They bring the name of Christ as their authority for the fulfillment of the promise, but they do not those things that would show faith in Christ and love for Him.—(Christ’s Object Lessons, 143.)?{Pr 104.4}[37]
§77 我们若符合了条件,应允祷告的应许就不会落空——祈祷和信心是有密切关系的,所以必须一起学习。在信心的祈祷中有一门神圣的学科,是每一个想在一生的工作上取得成功的人所必须明白的。基督说:“凡你们祷告祈求的,无论是求什么,只要信是得着的,就必得着”(可11:24)。祂又解释说,我们必须按着上帝的旨意求,我们必须求祂所应许的东西。我们不论得着什么,都应用来遵行祂的旨意。我们若符合了条件,应许就不会落空。{Pr 105.1}[38]
§78 If the Conditions Are Met, the Promise of Answered Prayer Is Unequivocal—Prayer and faith are closely allied, and they need to be studied together. In the prayer of faith there is a divine science; it is a science that everyone who would make his lifework a success must understand. Christ says, “What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.”?Mark 11:24. He makes it plain that our asking must be according to God’s will; we must ask for the things that He has promised, and whatever we receive must be used in doing His will. The conditions met, the promise is unequivocal.{Pr 105.1}[38]
§79 我们可以求赦罪,求圣灵,求基督化的性情,求智慧和能力去做祂的工作,求祂所应许的任何恩赐。然后我们应当相信我们必能得着,并感谢上帝使我们得到了。{Pr 105.2}[39]
§80 For the pardon of sin, for the Holy Spirit, for a Christlike temper, for wisdom and strength to do His work, for any gift He has promised, we may ask; then we are to believe that we receive, and return thanks to God that we have received.{Pr 105.2}[39]
§81 我们不必寻找福惠的外表凭据。恩赐乃是在应许之中。我们只管努力工作,确信上帝必成就祂的应许。我们所已得着的恩赐,必在我们最需要的时候发挥作用。(Ed 257, 258.){Pr 105.3}[40]
§82 We need look for no outward evidence of the blessing. The gift is in the promise, and we may go about our work assured that what God has promised He is able to perform, and that the gift, which we already possess, will be realized when we need it most.—(Education, 257, 258.){Pr 105.3}[40]
§83 我们祷告不是向上帝下令——我们晓得如果照着祂的旨意求,祂就必听我们。我们的祈求绝不可是命令式的,而应是代求式的,求主成就我们所愿望祂的事。(2T.149){Pr 105.4}[41]
§84 Our Prayers Are Not Commands to God—We know that He hears us if we ask according to His will. Our petitions must not take the form of a command, but of intercession for Him to do the things we desire of Him.—(Testimonies for the Church 2:149.){Pr 105.4}[41]
§85 祈祷不一定立时应允——上帝要把充满福惠的天国赐给凡愿意与祂合作的人。一切顺服祂的人都可以毫不犹豫地要求祂实现祂的应许。但是我们必须对上帝表显出一种坚定不移的信赖。祂有时迟迟不答应我们,是为了考验我们的信心,查看我们的愿望是否真诚。我们既然已经按照祂的话而祈求,就要相信祂的应许,并用一种祂所不忍拒绝的恒心向祂恳求。(COL 145)?{Pr 105.5}[42]
§86 Prayers Not Always Answered Immediately—God has a heaven full of blessings for those who will co-operate with Him. All who obey Him may with confidence claim the fulfillment of His promises.?But we must show a firm, undeviating trust in God. Often He delays to answer us in order to try our faith or test the genuineness of our desire. Having asked according to His word, we should believe His promise and press our petitions with a determination that will not be denied.—(Christ’s Object Lessons, 145.)?{Pr 105.5}[42]
§87 当那些明白真理的人实践圣经所教导的克己时,福音的信息就必有力地传开了。上帝必垂听我们为救灵而献上的祷告。祂的子民必让他们的光照耀出去,让不信的人因看见他们的好行为,就将荣耀归给我们天上的父。(MYP 315){Pr 106.1}[43]
§88 When those who know the truth practice the self-denial enjoined in God’s word, the message will go with power. The Lord will hear our prayers for the conversion of souls. God’s people will let their light shine forth, and unbelievers, seeing their good works, will glorify our heavenly Father.—(Messages to Young People, 315.){Pr 106.1}[43]
§89 基督听说拉撒路病了,仍耽延了两天,这不是祂的疏忽或拒绝。祂的目的原是要留在祂所在的地方,直到拉撒路死了,祂好给人们一个有关祂神性的证据,不是藉着使一个垂死的人复原,而是藉着使一个已经被埋葬的人复活。{Pr 106.2}[44]
§90 Christ’s two days’ delay after hearing that Lazarus was sick was not a neglect or a denial on His part. It was His purpose to remain where He was till the death of Lazarus took place, that He might give the people an evidence of His divinity, not by restoring a dying man, but by raising to life a man that had been buried.{Pr 106.2}[44]
§91 这对我们应该是一个鼓励。我们有时受试探以为“你们祈求,就给你们;寻找,就寻见;叩门,就给你们开门”(太7:7)这个应许不会实现,除非我们在发出请求的时候立即得蒙应允。我们有特权祈求特别的福气,并且相信主必将那些福气赐给我们。但所求的福气如果没有立刻赐予,我们也不要以为自己的祷告没有蒙主垂听。我们必得着,即使应允暂时耽搁了。在执行救赎计划的时候,基督在人性中看到足以使祂灰心的东西。但祂并没有灰心。祂本着仁慈和爱心继续给我们机会和特权。所以我们应当安息在主里面,耐心等候祂。我们的祈求也许没有像我们所希望的那样迅速得到回答,也许主的回答不完全是我们所求的。但主知道什么对祂的儿女最有利。只要我们不灰心,不丧失信心,祂赐给我们的,定会比我们所求的更好。 (YI.1899.4.6){Pr 106.3}[45]
§92 This should be an encouragement to us. We are sometimes tempted to think that the promise, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you,” is not fulfilled unless the answer comes immediately when the request is made. It is our privilege to ask for special blessings, and to believe that they will be given us. But if the blessings asked for are not immediately granted, we are not to think that our prayers are not heard. We shall receive, even if the answer is delayed for a time. In carrying out the plan of redemption, Christ sees enough in humanity to discourage Him. But He does not become discouraged. In mercy and love He continues to offer us opportunities and privileges. So we are to rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him. The answer to our prayers may not come as quickly as we desire, and it may not be just what we have asked; but He who knows what is for the highest good of His children will bestow a much greater good than we have asked, if we do not become faithless and discouraged.—(The Youth’s Instructor, April 6, 1899.){Pr 106.3}[45]
§93 我们都希望自己的祈祷能得到迅速而直接的应允,所以在遇到应允迟延或不依着我们的意思成就时,就容易灰心失望。然而智慧慈爱的上帝不一定要按照我们所希望的时间和方式回答我们的祈祷。祂为我们所成就的,要比我们所求的更多更好。我们既信靠祂的智慧和慈爱,就不要勉强祂依顺我们的意思,而要设法遵行和成就祂的旨意。我们要让自己的愿望和情趣消失在祂的旨意中。这种考验我们信心的经历,是对我们有益处的,可以证明我们的信心是否真诚,是单单信靠上帝的话呢,还是随着环境而变化?信心是通过操练而增强的。我们必须发挥忍耐的全部作用,牢记圣经中对耐心等候上帝旨意之人的宝贵应许。(MH 230,231){Pr 107.1}[46]
§94 We all desire immediate and direct answers to our prayers, and are tempted to become discouraged when the answer is delayed or comes in an unlooked-for form. But God is too wise and good to answer our prayers always at just the time and in just the manner we desire. He will do more and better for us than to accomplish all our wishes. And because we can trust His wisdom and love, we should not ask Him to concede to our will, but should seek to enter into and accomplish His purpose. Our desires and interests should be lost in His will. These experiences that test faith are for our benefit. By them it is made manifest whether our faith is true and sincere, resting on the word of God alone, or whether depending on circumstances, it is uncertain and changeable. Faith is strengthened by exercise. We must let patience have its perfect work, remembering that there are precious promises in the Scriptures for those who wait upon the Lord.—(The Ministry of Healing, 230, 231.){Pr 107.1}[46]
§95 我看到上帝的仆人及教会,真是太容易灰心丧胆了。当他们向天父祈求他们所认为需要的东西之时,这些东西若没有立刻赐给他们,他们的信心就摇动了,胆量消失了,却代之以埋怨的心。我看到这种情形是上帝不喜悦的。{Pr 107.2}[47]
§96 I saw that the servants of God and the church were too easily discouraged. When they asked their Father in Heaven for things they thought they needed, and because it did not immediately come, their faith wavered, their courage fled, and a murmuring feeling took possession of them. This I saw displeased God.{Pr 107.2}[47]
§97 每位圣徒诚心来到上帝面前,本着信心献上忠实的请求,他的祈祷是必蒙应允的。如果你不见或不觉自己的祈祷立时蒙允,你信靠上帝应许的心,仍然切不可失去。莫怕信靠上帝。应当仰赖祂坚确的应许:“你们求,就必得着”(约16:24)。以上帝的睿智,必不至于有错误;祂太善良了,必不留下一样好处不给那些行动正直的人。人是会做错的,虽然他所献的祈求是出于诚心,但他所求的事,却未必常是对己有益,或能荣耀上帝的。若能那样,我们聪明良善的父,就会听我们的祈祷,且会应允;有时是立即应允。凡祂所赐给我们的,都是与我们最有益处,并能使祂得荣耀的。{Pr 107.3}[48]
§98 Every saint that comes to God with a true heart, in faith, and sends their honest petitions to Him, will have their prayers answered. Their faith must not let go of the promises of God if they do not see or feel the immediate answer of their prayers. Be not afraid to trust God. Rely upon His sure promise, “Ask and ye shall receive.” God is too wise to err, and too good to withhold any good thing from His saints that walk uprightly. Man is erring, and although his petitions are sent up from an honest heart, he does not always ask for the things that are good for himself, or that will glorify God. When this is so, our wise and good Father hears our prayers, and will answer; sometimes immediately, but gives us the things that are for our best good and His own glory.{Pr 107.3}[48]
§99 上帝的子民如果能看透祂的计划,就会知道祂所赐的,都是对他们最有益处的。虽然他们所领受的,不一定是他们所期望所祈求的,但他们的祈祷定会得到回答。有时他们所求的,非但于己无益,反而有害,因此祂就不照他们所求而改将他们所最需要的福气,赐给他们。{Pr 107.4}[49]
§100 If the children of God could see His plan, they would know that He gives them that which is for their best good. Although they?may not receive just the things they expected, or asked for, yet their prayers were answered. Nothing hurtful was given, but the blessing they most needed, in the place of something they had asked for, that would not have been good for them, but to their hurt.?{Pr 107.4}[49]
§101 我看到,如果我们觉得自己的祈祷没有立时蒙应允,我们仍当坚持信心,切莫让疑惑之念进入心中,因为这种心念会使我们离开上帝。若是我们的信心摇动了,就不能从祂得着什么。我们信靠上帝的心应当坚强;及至我们需要最切之时,上帝所赐的福惠,就会象大雨倾盆,降在我们的身上了。{Pr 108.1}[50]
§102 I saw if we did not feel immediate answers to our prayers, we should hold fast our faith, let no distrust come in; for that will separate us from God. If our faith wavers, we shall receive nothing from Him. Our confidence in God should be strong, and when we need it the most, the blessing will drop upon us like a shower of rain.{Pr 108.1}[50]
§103 上帝的仆人们祈求圣灵及福气之时,有时会立刻得到;但有时则不然。在这种情形中,切不可灰心。应当坚持你信靠应许的心,相信其必定来到。你应当全然信靠上帝,这样,那福气就往往在你最需要的时候来到,并且当你向不信的人传扬真理时,就可从上帝得意外的帮助,使你说出的话清晰而有力。{Pr 108.2}[51]
§104 When the servants of God have prayed for His Spirit and blessing, it sometimes comes immediately, but it is not always then bestowed. At such times faint not. Let thy faith hold fast the promise, that it will come. Let thy trust be fully in God, and often that blessing will come when you need it the most, and unexpectedly you will receive help from God, when you are speaking the truth to unbelievers, and with clearness you can speak the word, and with power.{Pr 108.2}[51]
§105 我蒙指示,得见这种情形好像小孩子们向那爱他们的世上父母讨求福惠一样。他们所求的东西,有些是父母知道对他们有害的,因此父母就不照他们的心愿,而改将对他们有益和有助健康的东西赐给他们。我看到凡是凭着信心而献上的诚心祈祷,都必得蒙上帝的垂听及应允;那献祷的人在最需要的时候,就可得到丰富的福惠,而且往往是超过他所期望的。忠实圣徒凭着信心而献上的诚心祈祷,是无一会落空的。{4bSG 7-9.){Pr 108.3}[52]
§106 It was represented to me like children asking a blessing of their earthly parents that love them. They ask something that the parent knows will hurt them; the parent gives them the things that will be good and healthy for them, in the place of that which the child desired. I saw that every prayer that was sent up in faith from an honest heart will be heard of God and answered, and the one that sent up the petition will have the blessing when he needs it the most, and it will often exceed his expectations. Not a prayer of the true saint is lost if sent up from an honest heart in faith.—(Spiritual Gifts 4b, 7-9.){Pr 108.3}[52]
§107 在祷告之后,若是没有立即觉得蒙主应允,切不可倦于等待,及变成摇动不定。不可疑惑,应当坚持那应许:“那召你们的本是信实的,祂必成就这事”(帖前5:24)。要象那再三切求的寡妇一样,迫切陈述你的情形,坚定你的心意。这个目标是否重要及与你大有关系呢?一定是的。既然如此,就不应疑惑,因为你的信心也许要经过试验。如果你所渴望的事是有价值的,那就值得下一番坚强认真的努力。你有了这应许,就当警醒祈求。务要坚定,你的祷告就必蒙应允;因为那应许你的,岂不是上帝吗?你若是付了代价才能得到,在得到之时,就必更觉得有价值。你已得到明白的通知,你若是疑惑,就不要想从主那里可得什么。在这里还有一个警戒,那就是不可厌倦,乃要坚心信靠主的应许。你若祈求,祂就要厚赐你,也不斥责你。(2T.131)?{Pr 108.4}[53]
§108 After the prayer is made, if the answer is not realized immediately, do not weary of waiting and become unstable. Waver not. Cling to the promise, “Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it.” Like the importunate widow, urge your case, being firm in your purpose. Is the object important and of great consequence to you? It certainly is. Then waver not, for your faith may be tried. If the thing you desire is valuable, it is worthy of a strong, earnest effort. You have the promise; watch and pray. Be steadfast and the prayer will be answered; for is it not God who has promised? If it costs you something?to obtain it you will prize it the more when obtained. You are plainly told that if you waver you need not think that you shall receive anything of the Lord. A caution is here given not to become weary, but to rest firmly upon the promise. If you ask, He will give you liberally and upbraid not.—(Testimonies for the Church 2:131.)?{Pr 108.4}[53]
§109 “你们祈求,就给你们”(太7:7 )。主的保证是宽广无边的。祂信守自己的承诺。我们有时信心软弱是因为无穷智慧的主没有达到我们的条件。当出于什么原因我们没有在祈求的时候得着我们所要的东西时,我们仍要相信主听见了,而且祂必把那些对我们最有益的东西赐给我们。祂自己的荣耀便是一个充分的理由,说明祂有时不给我们所求的,却以一种我们没有料到的方式应允我们的祈祷。但我们仍要坚信这个应许(太7:7),因为应允的时候一定会来到。我们将领受我们最需要的福分。(ST.1884.8.21){Pr 109.1}[54]
§110 “Ask, and ye shall receive.” The assurance is broad and unlimited, and He is faithful who has promised. We sometimes fail in faith because Infinite Wisdom does not come to our terms. When for any reason we do not receive the very things we ask for at the time we ask, we are still to believe that the Lord hears, and that He will give us those things that are best for us. His own glory is a sufficient reason for sometimes withholding what we ask for, and answering our prayers in a manner that we did not expect. But we are to cling to the promise; for the time of answering will come, and we shall receive the blessings we need most.—(The Signs of the Times, August 21, 1884.){Pr 109.1}[54]
§111 上帝不一定按照我们所期待的回答,但总是为了我们的益处——既然这样,你们就祈求吧。你们祈求,就必得着。要求谦卑,求智慧,求勇气,求信心的加增。每一个出于诚心的祷告必蒙应允。上帝的应允也许不是照着你的意思,或你所希望的时辰,但祂必按着最有利于你的时间和方式给你。你在孤单,疲乏,试炼之中所献的祷告,上帝必定应允你,不一定按照你的期望,但总是与你有益的。 (MYP 250){Pr 109.2}[55]
§112 God Does Not Always Answer as We Expect, But Always for Our Good—Ask, then; ask, and ye shall receive. Ask for humility, wisdom, courage, increase of faith. To every sincere prayer an answer will come. It may not come just as you desire, or at the time you look for it; but it will come in the way and at the time that will best meet your need. The prayers you offer in loneliness, in weariness, in trial, God answers, not always according to your expectations, but always for your good.—(Messages to Young People, 250.){Pr 109.2}[55]
§113 当你在痛苦中向上帝祈求基督里的平安时,一层乌云似乎笼罩了你的心。安息与平安并未如期而至。有时,你的信心似乎被熬炼到了极点。你回首往事,看到的尽都是痛苦和失望;你展望将来,悬悬无定,一片茫茫。上帝的圣手奇妙地带你到十字架下,教导你明白,上帝确实报答那些殷勤寻求祂的人。正确祈求的,就得着;凭着信心寻找的,就寻见。试炼和患难的洪炉中得到的经验,其价值远远超过所经历的痛苦与不便。{Pr 109.3}[56]
§114 While you prayed in your affliction for peace in Christ, a cloud of darkness seemed to blacken across your mind. The rest and peace did not come as you expected. At times your faith seemed to be tested to the utmost. As you looked back to your past life, you saw sorrow and disappointment; as you viewed the future, all was uncertainty. The divine Hand led you wondrously to bring you to the cross and to teach you that God was indeed a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. Those who ask aright will receive. He that seeketh in faith shall find. The experience gained in the furnace?of trial and affliction is worth more than all the inconvenience and painful experience it costs.?{Pr 109.3}[56]
§115 你在孤独、疲倦和试炼中所发的祈祷,上帝都垂听了,只是未必全按着你的预料,而是为了你的益处。你看待弟兄们的观点不够清晰正确,你看待自己也是如此。但是,上帝按着祂的深谋远虑,一直垂听着你在患难中所发的祷告,为要拯救你,并荣耀祂自己的名。你在没有自知之明时所求的,于你不是最有益的。上帝垂听了你真诚的祷告,但祂所赐给你的福气与你的期望大相径庭。上帝在祂的天意安排中,定意要你与祂的教会有更直接的联系,好叫你少一些自恃,多信赖那些上帝带领以推进祂圣工的弟兄。{Pr 110.1}[57]
§116 The prayers that you offered in your loneliness, in your weariness and trial, God answered, not always according to your expectations, but for your good. You did not have clear and correct views of your brethren, neither did you see yourself in a correct light. But, in the providence of God, He has been at work to answer the prayers you have offered in your distress, in a way to save you and glorify His own name. In your ignorance of yourself you asked for things which were not best for you. God heard your prayers of sincerity, but the blessing granted was something very different from your expectations. God designed, in His providence, to place you more directly in connection with His church, that your confidence might be less in yourself and greater in others whom He is leading out to advance His work.{Pr 110.1}[57]
§117 上帝垂听每一个真诚的祈祷。 (3T.415, 416.){Pr 110.2}[58]
§118 God hears every sincere prayer.—(Testimonies for the Church 3:415, 416.){Pr 110.2}[58]
§119 上帝在祂所定的时间应允祈祷——撒迦利亚婚后一直求一个儿子。现在他们夫妻二人都已老迈,他们的祷告仍未得到应允,可是撒迦利亚并没有埋怨。上帝没有忘记。祂应允这个祷告是有时候的。在表面上毫无希望的时刻,撒迦利亚的祷告蒙应允了。(5BC 1114.){Pr 110.3}[59]
§120 God Answers Prayer at His Own Appointed Time—Throughout his married life, Zacharias had prayed for a son. He and his wife were now old, and as yet their prayer had remained unanswered; but he murmured not. God had not forgotten. He had His appointed time for answering this prayer, and when the case seemed hopeless, Zacharias received his answer.—(SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 5, 1114.){Pr 110.3}[59]
§121 为什么祷告可能推迟回应——上帝不一定在我们第一次向祂祈求时就答应我们,因为如果这样,我们就可能会认为自己理应得到祂所赐的一切福气和宠爱。我们就不会省察己心,看看自己是否怀有和放纵了什么罪恶,反会变得粗心大意,认识不到我们对祂的依赖,也不觉得需要祂的帮助。 (RH.1891.6.9){Pr 110.4}[60]
§122 Why Answers to Prayer May Be Delayed—God does not always answer our prayers the first time we call upon Him; for should He do this, we might take it for granted that we had a right to all the blessings and favors He bestowed upon us. Instead of searching our hearts to see if any evil was entertained by us, any sin indulged, we would become careless, and fail to realize our dependence upon Him, and our need of His help.—(The Review and Herald, June 9, 1891.){Pr 110.4}[60]
§123 圣经中有宝贵的应许给那些等候主的人。我们都希望我们的祈求立即蒙应允,若是我们的祷告没有立即得到应允,就受试探变得灰心丧气。如今,我的经验教我知道这是一个大错误。迟延是为了我们特别的益处。我们有一个机会看到我们的信心是真实真诚的还是易变如海中的波浪。我们必须用有力的信心和爱心的绳索把自己捆在祭坛上,且让忍耐成全她的工作。信心藉着运用而加强。这种等待并不意味着我们既求主医治自己就无所事事了。正相反,我们要充分利用主本着祂的良善在我们需要时提供的方法。(CH 380,381.)?{Pr 110.5}[61]
§124 There are precious promises in the Scriptures to those who wait upon the Lord. We all desire an immediate answer to our prayers and are tempted to become discouraged if our prayer is?not immediately answered. Now, my experience has taught me that this is a great mistake. The delay is for our special benefit. We have a chance to see whether our faith is true and sincere or changeable like the waves of the sea. We must bind ourselves upon the altar with the strong cords of faith and love, and let patience have her perfect work. Faith strengthens through continual exercise. This waiting does not mean that because we ask the Lord to heal there is nothing for us to do. On the contrary, we are to make the very best use of the means which the Lord in His goodness has provided for us in our necessities.—(Counsels on Health, 380, 381.)?{Pr 110.5}[61]
§125 即使没有回答,也要继续祈求——有时我们的祈求不会立时得到应允;有时我们得耐心等待,继续恳切地祈求我们所需要的东西,那个情辞迫切的求饼者的情况说明了我们的情况。“你们中间谁有一个朋友半夜到他那里去”(路11:5)等等。这个教训的意义超过我们所能想到的。我们要继续求,即使我们没有体验到对我们祷告的立即回应。“我又告诉你们,你们祈求,就给你们;寻找,就寻见;叩门,就给你们开门。因为,凡祈求的,就得着;寻找的,就寻见;叩门的,就给他开门”(路11:9,10)。{Pr 111.1}[62]
§126 Keep Asking, Even if the Answer Does Not Come—Sometimes answers to our prayers come immediately; sometimes we have to wait patiently and continue earnestly to plead for the things that we need, our cases being illustrated by the case of the importunate solicitor for bread. “Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight,” etc. This lesson means more than we can imagine. We are to keep on asking, even if we do not realize the immediate response to our prayers. “I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”?Luke 11:9, 10.{Pr 111.1}[62]
§127 我们需要恩典,我们需要上帝的启迪,以便藉着圣灵知道如何求我们所需要的东西。我们的祈求若是出于主的,就必蒙应允。(CH 380){Pr 111.2}[63]
§128 We need grace, we need divine enlightenment, that through the Spirit we may know how to ask for such things as we need. If our petitions are indited by the Lord they will be answered.—(Counsels on Health, 380.){Pr 111.2}[63]
§129 推迟回答是为了显示我们的自私——那在迦百农赐恩与这位大臣的主,现在也是一样地切望赐恩给我们。可是我们也像那忧伤的父亲一样,往往因为想得世上的好处而去寻找耶稣。对于祂的慈爱,也以祂是否应允我们的请求作为信靠的根据。但是救主切望将超过我们所求的福气赐给我们,所以就迟迟不答应我们的恳求,为要指出我们心中的罪恶,并使我们明白自己是何等需要祂的恩惠。祂要我们把那寻找祂的自私之念抛弃。我们要承认自己的毫无能力和非常缺乏,并全心全意地信靠祂的慈爱。{Pr 111.3}[64]
§130 Answers Delayed to Reveal Our Selfishness—He who blessed the nobleman at Capernaum is just as desirous of blessing us. But like the afflicted father, we are often led to seek Jesus by the desire for some earthly good; and upon the granting of our request we rest our confidence in His love. The Saviour longs to give us a greater blessing than we ask; and He delays the answer to our request that He may show us the evil of our own hearts, and our deep need of His grace. He desires us to renounce the selfishness?that leads us to seek Him. Confessing our helplessness and bitter need, we are to trust ourselves wholly to His love.?{Pr 111.3}[64]
§131 大臣想要先看见自己所求之事的实现,然后才肯相信。但是他必须接受耶稣的话,相信他的恳求已蒙垂听,所求的福已蒙赐予。这个教训,也是我们所该学的。不是因为看见或是觉得上帝已听我们,我们才相信。我们要信靠祂的应许。我们若抱着信心到祂面前来,我们的每一恳求便进人祂的心中了。我们既已求了祂的恩典,就该相信自己必要得着,并且因为已经得着而感谢祂。然后我们就当履行自己的职责,一心相信上帝会在我们最需要的时候,将恩典赐给我们。当我们学会了这样作的时候,就可以知道我们的祈祷已蒙应允。上帝也必“按着祂丰盛的荣耀,”和“祂在基督身上所运行的大能大力,”替我们“充充足足地成就一切”(弗3:16;1:20;3:20)。(DA 200){Pr 112.1}[65]
§132 The nobleman wanted to see the fulfillment of his prayer before he should believe; but he had to accept the word of Jesus that his request was heard and the blessing granted. This lesson we also have to learn. Not because we see or feel that God hears us are we to believe. We are to trust in His promises. When we come to Him in faith, every petition enters the heart of God. When we have asked for His blessing, we should believe that we receive it, and thank Him that we have received it. Then we are to go about our duties, assured that the blessing will be realized when we need it most. When we have learned to do this, we shall know that our prayers are answered. God will do for us “exceeding abundantly”, “according to the riches of His glory,” and “the working of His mighty power.”?Ephesians 3:20, 16;Ephesians 1:19.—(The Desire of Ages, 200.){Pr 112.1}[65]
§133 表面上没有回应的祈祷可能列在我们最大的福气中——祂本着对我们的关心和爱护,经常不让我们自私地谋求满足自己的野心。祂不容我们错过身边平凡而神圣的本分。这些本分往往是我们预备担任更高的职务所必不可少的训练。我们计划的失败,常常是为了上帝计划的成功。{Pr 112.2}[66]
§134 Seemingly Unanswered Prayers May Be Among Our Greatest Blessings—In His loving care and interest for us, often He who understands us better than we understand ourselves refuses to permit us selfishly to seek the gratification of our own ambition. He does not permit us to pass by the homely but sacred duties that lie next us. Often these duties afford the very training essential to prepare us for a higher work. Often our plans fail that God’s plans for us may succeed.{Pr 112.2}[66]
§135 上帝并没有叫我们为祂作出真正的牺牲。许多事物祂要我们交给祂,但我们这样做只是放弃了天路上的障碍。即使上帝要我们舍弃本身有益的东西,我们也可以确知祂是为了我们更高的利益。{Pr 112.3}[67]
§136 We are never called upon to make a real sacrifice for God. Many things He asks us to yield to Him, but in doing this we are but giving up that which hinders us in the heavenward way. Even when called upon to surrender those things which in themselves are good, we may be sure that God is thus working out for us some higher good.{Pr 112.3}[67]
§137 到了来生,如今令我们困惑烦恼的奥秘都将解开。我们将会看到,表面上没有回答的祈祷和失望,实际上列在我们最大的福气中。{Pr 112.4}[68]
§138 In the future life the mysteries that here have annoyed and disappointed us will be made plain. We shall see that our seemingly unanswered prayers and disappointed hopes have been among our greatest blessings.{Pr 112.4}[68]
§139 每一样本分,不论多么卑微,我们都要视之为上帝神圣事业的一部分。我们要每天祈祷说:“主啊,帮助我尽自己的力量。教导我做更好的工作。赐给我能力和快乐。帮助我在我的服务中表显出救主慈爱的精神。”(MH 473,474){Pr 112.5}[69]
§140 We are to look upon every duty, however humble, as sacred because it is a part of God’s service. Our daily prayer should be, “Lord, help me to do my best. Teach me how to do better work.?Give me energy and cheerfulness. Help me to bring into my service the loving ministry of the Saviour.”(The Ministry of Healing, 473, 474.)?{Pr 112.5}[69]
§141 有时上帝没有给我们所求的东西,因为祂有更好的东西要给我们——当我们来到祂面前时,我们应当祈求使自己可以参与和成全祂的旨意,以致可以因上帝的心愿及兴趣,而忘却我们自己的心愿及兴趣。我们应承认我们接纳祂的旨意,而不是祈求祂向我们的心意让步。上帝没有常照我们所求的如时如愿应允,这乃是对我们更有益处。祂要为我们所行的,必定比实现我们一切的心愿更多而且更好;因为我们的智慧乃是愚昧。(2T.148){Pr 113.1}[70]
§142 Sometimes God Does Not Give Us What We Pray for Because He Has Something Better for Us—When we come to Him we should pray that we may enter into and accomplish His purpose, and that our desires and interests may be lost in His. We should acknowledge our acceptance of His will, not praying Him to concede to ours. It is better for us that God does not always answer our prayers just when we desire, and in just the manner we wish. He will do more and better for us than to accomplish all our wishes, for our wisdom is folly.—(Testimonies for the Church 2:148.){Pr 113.1}[70]
§143 出于信心的恳切祈祷所发的力量是大有功效的。上帝不一定照着我们的期望应允我们的祷告,因为我们所要求的可能对我们来说不是最好的;但祂会本着祂无限的仁爱和智慧赐给我们最需要东西。 (4T. 531.){Pr 113.2}[71]
§144 That prayer which comes forth from an earnest, believing heart is the effectual, fervent prayer that availeth much. God does not always answer our prayers as we expect, for we may not ask what would be for our highest good; but in His infinite love and wisdom He will give us those things which we most need.—(Testimonies for the Church 4:531.){Pr 113.2}[71]
§145 我们应当配合上帝回答我们的祈祷——圣经说明有两大互相争夺的势力在影响和支配世上的人。双方都在不断与每一个人合作。那些受上帝管理和天使影响的人,必能发现那看不见的幽暗势力的狡猾作为。那些希望与天上的代表和谐的人,必热心遵行上帝的旨意。他们不会给撒但和他的使者留任何地步。{Pr 113.3}[72]
§146 We Are to Cooperate With God in Answering Our Prayers—In the Word of God are represented two contending parties that influence and control human agencies in our world. Constantly these parties are working with every human being. Those who are under God’s control and who are influenced by the heavenly angels, will be able to discern the crafty workings of the unseen powers of darkness. Those who desire to be in harmony with the heavenly agencies should be intensely in earnest to do God’s will. They must give no place whatever to Satan and his angels.{Pr 113.3}[72]
§147 如果我们不时刻警惕,就会被仇敌所胜。尽管上帝对于我们旨意的严肃启示已赐给众人,但是单了解祂的旨意还是不够的。我们仍需热切地向祂求助,努力与祂合作以实现所献的祈祷。祂是通过人来实行祂旨意的。(6BC. 1119.){Pr 113.4}[73]
§148 But unless we are constantly on guard, we shall be overcome by the enemy. Although a solemn revelation of God’s will concerning us has been revealed to all, yet a knowledge of His will does not set aside the necessity of offering earnest supplications to Him for help, and of diligently seeking to cooperate with Him in answering the prayers offered. He accomplishes His purposes through human instrumentalities.—(SDA Bible Commentary 6:1119.){Pr 113.4}[73]
§149 无诚意的祷告不会蒙应允——上帝对我们的应允,取决于我们的态度。我们倦怠而无诚意的祷告不会得到上天的回应。我们需要恳切地祈求!要凭着信心祈求,凭着信心等待,凭着信心领受,在指望中喜乐,因为凡寻找的,就必寻见。要认真对待这件事。要全心全意地寻求上帝。世人专心致志地从事属世的事务,直到他们的努力取得了成功。要以极度诚恳的态度,学习如何寻求上帝所应许诸般丰盛的福惠,并进行持久而坚决的努力,这样你就必得着祂的光亮,祂的真理和祂丰盛的恩惠。{Pr 114.1}[74]
§150 Half-Hearted Prayers Will Not Bring Answers—God will be to us everything we will let Him be. Our languid, half-hearted prayers will not bring us returns from heaven. Oh, we need to press our petitions! Ask in faith, wait in faith, receive in faith, rejoice in hope, for everyone that seeketh findeth. Be in earnest in the matter. Seek God with all the heart. People put soul and earnestness into everything they undertake in temporal things, until their efforts are crowned with success. With intense earnestness learn the trade of seeking the rich blessings that God has promised, and with persevering, determined effort you shall have His light and His truth and His rich grace.{Pr 114.1}[74]
§151 要以真诚饥渴的心灵向上帝呼吁。要和天使角力,直到获得胜利。当将自己的一切,就是灵与魂与身子,交在上帝的手中,决心作祂仁爱圣洁的器皿,顺祂旨意的支配,受祂心意的控制,为祂的灵所充满。{Pr 114.2}[75]
§152 In sincerity, in soul hunger, cry after God. Wrestle with the heavenly agencies until you have the victory. Put your whole being into the Lord’s hands, soul, body, and spirit, and resolve to be His loving, consecrated agency, moved by His will, controlled by His mind, infused by His Spirit.{Pr 114.2}[75]
§153 要诚恳地将你的需要告诉耶稣。你无须与上帝作冗长的谈话,或向上帝讲一篇道理,却要怀着痛悔已罪的心说:“主啊!救我,不然我就灭亡了。”这样的人必有指望。他们要寻找,他们要祈求,他们要叩门,他们就必寻见。当耶稣挪除那压碎心灵的罪担时,你必体验到基督所赐平安的福惠。 (OHC.131.) {Pr 114.3}[76]
§154 Tell Jesus your wants in the sincerity of your soul. You are not required to hold a long controversy with, or preach a sermon to, God, but with a heart of sorrow for your sins, say, “Save me, Lord, or I perish.” There is hope for such souls. They will seek, they will ask, they will knock, and they will find. When Jesus has taken away the burden of sin that is crushing the soul, you will experience the blessedness of the peace of Christ.—(Our High Calling, 131.){Pr 114.3}[76]
§155 祈求赦罪的祷告总是马上应允——耶稣有几次医病的时候,并没有立刻赐给病人所求的福。但是对于麻疯症,病人一祈求,祂就立刻允准。在我们求世俗的福惠时,上帝可能迟迟不答应我们的祈求,或者赐给一些我们所没有求的其他的东西,但我们若求祂救我们脱离罪恶,就不是如此。祂的旨意是要洗除我们的罪孽,使我们作祂的儿女,并赐我们能力得以过一种圣洁的生活。“基督照我们父上帝的旨意为我们的罪舍已,要救我们脱离这罪恶的世代。”“我们若照祂的旨意求什么,祂就听我们,这是我们向祂所存坦然无惧的心。既然知道祂听我们一切所求的,就知道我们所求于祂的无不得着”(加1:4;约壹5:14、15)。“我们若认自己的罪,上帝是信实的,是公义的,必要赦免我们的罪,洗净我们一切的不义”(约壹1:9)。(DA 266)?{Pr 114.4}[77]
§156 The Prayer for Forgiveness Is Always Answered at Once—In some instances of healing, Jesus did not at once grant the blessing sought. But in the case of leprosy, no sooner was the appeal made than it was granted. When we pray for earthly blessings, the answer to our prayer may be delayed, or God may give us something other than we ask, but not so when we ask for deliverance from sin. It is His will to cleanse us from sin, to make us His children, and to enable us to live a holy life. Christ “gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father.”?Galatians 1:4. And “this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything?according to His will, He heareth us: and if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him.”?1 John 5:14, 15. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”?1 John 1:9.—(The Desire of Ages, 266.)?{Pr 114.4}[77]
§157 基督把我们的祈祷作为自己的要求呈到天父那里——上帝的儿女一接近施恩的宝座,便立时成为那位伟大“辩护者”的当事人了。他在初次表示悔罪并恳求赦免时,基督便将他的案件当作祂自己的案件,将他的恳求当作祂自己的请求呈达天父面前。(6T 364){Pr 115.1}[78]
§158 Christ Presents Our Prayers Before the Father as His Own Request—No sooner does the child of God approach the mercy seat than he becomes the client of the great Advocate. At his first utterance of penitence and appeal for pardon Christ espouses his case and makes it His own, presenting the supplication before His Father as His own request.—(Testimonies for the Church 6:364.){Pr 115.1}[78]
§159 因已蒙应允的祷告而祷告以感谢和赞美上帝——在《撒母耳记上》第2章中,记载着一位侍奉和荣耀了上帝的献身妇人的祷告。她祷告说:“我的心因耶和华快乐;我的角因耶和华高举。我的口向仇敌张开;我因耶和华的救恩欢欣。只有耶和华为圣;除祂以外没有可比的,也没有磐石象我们的上帝。”哈拿因自己的祷告蒙应允而献上的感谢,对于今日那些其要求蒙应允的人,乃是一个教训。我们有没有疏忽,以致没有因上帝的慈爱而向祂报以赞美和感谢呢?{Pr 115.2}[79]
§160 Pray to Thank and Praise God for Answered Prayers—In the second chapter of 1 Samuel is recorded the prayer of a consecrated woman who served and glorified God. She prayed: “My heart rejoiceth in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation. There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.” Hannah’s offering of thanksgiving for the answer to her prayer is a lesson to those who today receive answers to their requests. Do we not neglect to return praise and thanksgiving to God for His loving-kindness?{Pr 115.2}[79]
§161 大卫说:“我爱耶和华,因为祂听了我的声音和我的恳求。祂既向我侧耳,我一生要求告祂”(诗116:1-2)。上帝仁慈地倾听和回答我们的祷告,使我们负起了重大的责任,为赐给我们的恩惠表示感谢。我们应当更多地赞美上帝。要立时承认因祈祷得蒙垂听而获得的福惠。我们应该把它们记在日记里,以便我们拿起日记本,就可想起主的良善,并且赞美祂的圣名。(RH.1908.5.7){Pr 115.3}[80]
§162 David declares, “I love the Lord, because He hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because He hath inclined His ear unto me, therefore will I call upon Him as long as I live.” God’s goodness in hearing and answering prayer places us under heavy obligation to express our thanksgiving for the favors bestowed upon us. We should praise God much more than we do. The blessings received in answer to prayer should be promptly acknowledged. The record of them should be placed in our diary, that when we take the book in hand, we may remember the goodness of the Lord, and praise His holy name.—(The Review and Herald, May 7, 1908.){Pr 115.3}[80]
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