第13章 祈祷的人
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第13章 祈祷的人
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Chap. 13—Men and Women of Prayer
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祷告对于他就是属灵的呼吸——以诺这样与上帝交往，就越来越反照上帝的形像。他脸上发出圣洁的光辉，就是照耀在耶稣脸上的光辉。当他作了这样的神圣交往之后，连不敬虔的人也敬畏地看到他脸上所表现上天的印记。{Pr 122.1}[1]
§4
【Enoch】
§5
Prayer Was the Breath of His Soul—Communing thus with God, Enoch came more and more to reflect the divine image. His face was radiant with a holy light, even the light that shineth in the face of Jesus. As he came forth from these divine communings, even the ungodly beheld with awe the impress of heaven upon his countenance.{Pr 122.1}[1]
§6
几百年的时光渐渐过去，他的信心越来越坚强；他的爱心也越来越热烈。祷告对于他就是心灵的呼吸。他简直是生活在上天的气氛之中。（GW 52){Pr 122.2}[2]
§7
His faith waxed stronger, his love became more ardent, with the lapse of centuries. To him prayer was as the breath of the soul. He lived in the atmosphere of heaven.—(Gospel Workers, 52.){Pr 122.2}[2]
§8
以诺一方面因不敬虔之人罪恶的增多而悲伤，一方面又怕他们的不信会影响自己对上帝的尊敬，所以他避免经常与他们接触，而多用时间单独在一处默想祈祷。他这样在上帝面前等候，以求更清楚地明白上帝的旨意，好实行出来。祷告对于他就是心灵的呼吸。他简直是生活在上天的气氛之中。（PP 85）{Pr 122.3}[3]
§9
Distressed by the increasing wickedness of the ungodly, and fearing that their infidelity might lessen his reverence for God, Enoch avoided constant association with them, and spent much time in solitude, giving himself to meditation and prayer. Thus he waited before the Lord, seeking a clearer knowledge of His will, that he might perform it. To him prayer was as the breath of the soul; he lived in the very atmosphere of heaven.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 85.){Pr 122.3}[3]
§10
以诺通过祷告与上帝同行——我希望帮助每一位上帝圣工的工人认识到不断恳切祈祷的极大需要。他们虽不能时刻跪在地上祈祷，但他们却能把心提到上帝面前。以诺就是这样与上帝同行的。 (RH.1885.11.10){Pr 123.1}[4]
§11
Enoch Walked With God Through Prayer—I wish I could impress upon every worker in God’s cause, the great need of continual, earnest prayer. They cannot be constantly upon their knees, but they can be uplifting their hearts to God. This is the way that Enoch walked with God.—(The Review and Herald, November 10, 1885.){Pr 123.1}[4]
§12
我们在从事日常工作的时候，应当藉着祷告中把自己的心提到天上。当这些静默的祷告像香气一样升到施恩的宝座前时，仇敌就败退了。凡如此与上帝保持心灵交通的基督徒必不会失败。没有什么邪恶的计谋会破坏他们的平安。上帝圣言的一切应许，上帝恩典的所有能力，耶和华的一切资源，都保证会来援助他。以诺就是这样与上帝同行的。上帝与他同在，作他随时的帮助。（MYP 249）{Pr 123.2}[5]
§13
While engaged in our daily work, we should lift the soul to heaven in prayer. These silent petitions rise like incense before the throne of grace; and the enemy is baffled. The Christian whose heart is thus stayed upon God cannot be overcome. No evil arts can destroy his peace. All the promises of God’s word, all the power of divine grace, all the resources of Jehovah, are pledged to secure his deliverance. It was thus that Enoch walked with God. And God was with him, a present help in every time of need.—(Messages to Young People, 249.){Pr 123.2}[5]
§14
人们寻访以诺，一同祷告——以诺成了一个传义道的人，将上帝所启示他的告诉众人。那些敬畏耶和华的人时常寻访这个圣人来听他的教训，并与他一同祷告。（PP.86）{Pr 123.3}[6]
§15
Individuals Sought Out Enoch for Prayer—Enoch became a preacher of righteousness, making known to the people what God had revealed to him. Those who feared the Lord sought out this holy man, to share his instruction and his prayers.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 86.){Pr 123.3}[6]
§16
以诺的工作越是繁重紧急，他的祷告就越为恒切热诚——以诺在一生忙碌的工作中，还是坚定地维持他与上帝的交往。他的工作越是繁重紧急，他的祷告就越为恒切热诚。他常在一定的时间闭门谢客。他留在民间工作了一段时间，言传身教帮助别人之后，往往就退居一处，独自如饥如渴地领受惟有上帝所能赐予的神圣知识。（PP. 86, 87.){Pr 123.4}[7]
§17
The Greater Enoch’s Labors, the More Earnest His Prayers—In the midst of a life of active labor, Enoch steadfastly maintained his communion with God. The greater and more pressing his labors, the more constant and earnest were his prayers. He continued to exclude himself, at certain periods, from all society. After remaining for a time among the people, laboring to benefit them by instruction and example, he would withdraw, to spend a season in solitude, hungering and thirsting for that divine knowledge which God alone can impart.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 86, 87.){Pr 123.4}[7]
§18
【亚伯拉罕】
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每日的祈祷如同馨香升到上帝的面前——上帝的朋友亚伯拉罕的生活，乃是一种祷告的生活。他无论在何处支搭帐棚，便在那里筑一座祭坛，在其上奉献早晚的祭礼。在他的帐棚迁徙的时候，那祭坛还是留在原处，当漂泊流离的迦南人经过祭坛的时候，他晓得是谁曾在那里居留过。在他支搭帐棚的时候，他也重修那个祭坛，并且敬拜永活的上帝。?{Pr 123.5}[8]
§20
【Abraham】
§21
Daily Prayer to Ascend to God as Sweet Incense—The life of Abraham, the friend of God, was a life of prayer. Wherever he pitched his tent, close beside it was built an altar, upon which?were offered the morning and the evening sacrifice. When his tent was removed, the altar remained. And the roving Canaanite, as he came to that altar, knew who had been there. When he had pitched his tent he repaired the altar and worshiped the living God.?{Pr 123.5}[8]
§22
照样，基督徒的家庭也当成为世上之光。从这些家庭，早晚有祈祷如同馨香升到上帝的面前。祂的恩典及福气，也要如清晨的甘露一般，降在一切祈求之人的身上。{Pr 124.1}[9]
§23
So the homes of Christians should be lights in the world. From them, morning and evening, prayer should ascend to God as sweet incense. And as the morning dew, His mercies and blessings will descend upon the suppliants.{Pr 124.1}[9]
§24
父母们啊，在每天早晚当招聚你们的儿女到身边来，在谦卑祈求之中，将心奉献给上帝，求祂的帮助。因为你所亲爱的人是暴露在试探之前。每日都有烦恼危迫于一家老少的路途上。凡要度忍耐，仁爱，和喜乐生活的人，就必须祷告，惟有藉着不断地从上帝那里领受帮助，我们才能制胜自己。{Pr 124.2}[10]
§25
Fathers and mothers, each morning and evening gather your children around you, and in humble supplication lift the heart to God for help. Your dear ones are exposed to temptation. Daily annoyances beset the path of young and old. Those who would live patient, loving, cheerful lives must pray. Only by receiving constant help from God can we gain the victory over self.{Pr 124.2}[10]
§26
每日早晨，要为当天而将你们自己以及你们的儿女，奉献给上帝。不要计算将来的岁月，因为这些不是属于你们的。所赐与你们的，只是这简短的一天。故此当在这一天之中为主作工，似乎这是你们在世的最后一日。要将你们的一切计划陈明在上帝面前，或进行，或放弃，都照着祂天意的安排而行。接受祂的计划以代替你们自己的，即使是放弃了你们所珍重的计划，亦在所不惜。这样，你们的人生越久便越发照着祂神圣的榜样而形成；如此“上帝所赐出人意外的平安，必在基督耶稣里保守你们的心怀意念”（腓4:7）。（7T 44.){Pr 124.3}[11]
§27
Each morning consecrate yourselves and your children to God for that day. Make no calculation for months or years; these are not yours. One brief day is given you. As if it were your last on earth, work during its hours for the Master. Lay all your plans before God, to be carried out or given up, as His providence shall indicate. Accept His plans instead of your own, even though their acceptance requires the abandonment of cherished projects. Thus the life will be molded more and more after the divine example; “and the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”?Philippians 4:7.—(Testimonies for the Church 7:44.){Pr 124.3}[11]
§28
亚伯拉罕不顾困难的环境，凭着信心祈祷——亚伯拉罕不能解释上帝引导他的方式。他还没有实现他的期望，但是他仍坚信上帝的应许：“我必赐福给你，叫你的名为大，你也要叫别人得福”（创12:2）。他恳切祷告，要设法保全他全家和牲畜的性命，但他决不容环境来动摇他对于上帝圣言的信心。(CC 45.){Pr 124.4}[12]
§29
Abraham Prayed in Faith in Spite of Difficult Circumstances—Abraham could not explain the leadings of Providence; he had not realized his expectations; but he held fast the promise, “I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing.” With earnest prayer he considered how to preserve the life of his people and his flocks, but he would not allow circumstances to shake his faith in God’s word.—(Conflict and Courage, 45.){Pr 124.4}[12]
§30
亚伯拉罕怀着一个孩子恳求父亲般的信靠之心祈求上帝——三位使者之中有两位离去了，留下亚伯拉罕单独与那一位同在。这时亚伯拉罕已经知道祂是上帝的儿子。于是这个有信心的人就为所多玛的居民代求。前一次他曾用刀剑拯救了他们；现在他企图用祷告拯救他们。这时罗得和他全家仍住在所多玛。前一次亚伯拉罕曾因无私的爱拯救他们脱离以拦人的手。如今，若是合乎上帝旨意的话，他要救他们脱离上帝的刑罚。?{Pr 124.5}[13]
§31
Abraham Prayed to God With the Confidence of a Child Pleading With His Father—Two of the heavenly messengers departed,leaving Abraham alone with Him whom he now knew to be the Son of God. And the man of faith pleaded for the inhabitants of Sodom. Once he had saved them by his sword, now he endeavored to save them by prayer. Lot and his household were still dwellers there; and the unselfish love that prompted Abraham to their rescue from the Elamites, now sought to save them, if it were God’s will, from the storm of divine judgment.?{Pr 124.5}[13]
§32
亚伯拉罕极其恭敬谦卑地向主恳求说：“我虽然是灰尘，还敢对主说话”（创18:27）。他没有自恃的心，也没有矜夸自己的公义。他没有因自己的顺从，或因自己遵行上帝旨意而付出的牺牲向上帝要求特别的恩待。他自己既是罪人，就为罪人代求。这种精神是凡亲近上帝的人所不可少的。可是亚伯拉罕却表现了儿女向他们所敬爱的父亲求告一般的信心。他挨近天上的使者，热切地提出他的请求。……{Pr 125.1}[14]
§33
With deep reverence and humility he urged his plea: “I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord, which am but dust and ashes.” There was no self-confidence, no boasting of his own righteousness. He did not claim favor on the ground of his obedience, or of the sacrifices he had made in doing God’s will. Himself a sinner, he pleaded in the sinner’s behalf. Such a spirit all who approach God should possess. Yet Abraham manifested the confidence of a child pleading with a loved father. He came close to the heavenly Messenger, and fervently urged his petition....{Pr 125.1}[14]
§34
亚伯拉罕的祈祷是出于一颗怜爱将亡之生灵的赤心。他虽然憎恶那败坏之城的罪恶，但他仍希望罪人可以得救。他对于所多玛所表示的深切关怀，乃是我们向不悔改的人所应有的热心。我们应当恨恶罪恶，但应当怜爱罪人。（PP. 139, 140.){Pr 125.2}[15]
§35
Love for perishing souls inspired Abraham’s prayer. While he loathed the sins of that corrupt city, he desired that the sinners might be saved. His deep interest for Sodom shows the anxiety that we should feel for the impenitent. We should cherish hatred of sin, but pity and love for the sinner.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 139, 140.){Pr 125.2}[15]
§36
雅各的经验说明了恒切祷告的重要性——雅各之所以得胜，是因了他有恒忍和坚决的心。他的经验说明恒切祷告的力量。现在我们要学习得胜的祷告和不屈的信心的教训。基督的教会或基督徒个人最大的胜利，并不是那些由于才干，教育，财富或人的帮助而得的胜利，乃是当他们以恳切坚定的信心握住全能者的膀臂，并在密室中谒见上帝时所得的胜利。{Pr 125.3}[16]
§37
【Jacob】
§38
Jacob’s Experience Teaches the Importance of Prevailing Prayer—Jacob prevailed because he was persevering and determined. His experience testifies to the power of importunate prayer. It is now that we are to learn this lesson of prevailing prayer, of unyielding faith. The greatest victories to the church of Christ or to the individual Christian are not those that are gained by talent or education, by wealth or the favor of men. They are those victories that are gained in the audience chamber with God, when earnest, agonizing faith lays hold upon the mighty arm of power.{Pr 125.3}[16]
§39
凡不愿放弃一切罪恶并恳切地追求上帝所赐之福的人，必不能得到这个福分。但是凡愿意象雅各一样握住上帝的应许，并象他一样恳切坚决的人，必要成功象他成功一样。（PP 203）{Pr 125.4}[17]
§40
Those who are unwilling to forsake every sin and to seek earnestly for God’s blessing, will not obtain it. But all who will lay hold?of God’s promises as did Jacob, and be as earnest and persevering as he was, will succeed as he succeeded.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 203.)?{Pr 125.4}[17]
§41
效法摩西祷告的榜样——要少说话。许多宝贵的光阴已浪费在没有意义的谈话上。弟兄们要同心禁食祈祷，祈求上帝应许要丰富供应的智慧。要把你们的困难告诉上帝，要象摩西那样对祂说：“祢若不亲自和我同去，就不要把我们从这里领上去。”然后象摩西那样进一步祈求：“求祢显出你的荣耀给我看”（出33:15,18）。这荣耀是什么呢？就是上帝的品格，是祂向摩西所宣告的。（GW 417）{Pr 126.1}[18]
§42
【Moses】
§43
Follow Moses’ Example in Prayer—Talk less; much precious time is lost in talk that brings no light. Let brethren unite in fasting and prayer for the wisdom that God has promised to supply liberally. Make known your troubles to God. Tell Him, as did Moses, “I cannot lead this people unless Thy presence shall go with me.” And then ask still more; pray with Moses, “Show me Thy glory.” [Exodus 33:18.] What is this glory?—The character of God. This is what He proclaimed to Moses.—(Gospel Workers, 417.){Pr 126.1}[18]
§44
摩西有效地为以色列人代求——上帝与祂百姓所立的约已经作废了。祂对摩西说：“你且由着我，我要向他们发烈怒，将他们灭绝，使你的后裔成为大国”（出32:10）。以色列民，尤其是那些闲杂人，必要不断地背叛上帝。他们也必埋怨他们的领袖摩西，他们的不信和顽梗必要使他担扰。要领他们到应许之地，确是一件辛苦而艰巨的工作。他们的罪已经使他们丧失了上帝的眷爱。按着公义的审判，他们该当毁灭。所以耶和华有意要灭绝他们，并使摩西成为大国。{Pr 126.2}[19]
§45
Moses Interceded Successfully for Israel—God’s covenant with His people had been disannulled, and He declared to Moses, “Let Me alone, that My wrath may wax hot against them, and that I may consume them: and I will make of thee a great nation.” The people of Israel, especially the mixed multitude, would be constantly disposed to rebel against God. They would also murmur against their leader, and would grieve him by their unbelief and stubbornness, and it would be a laborious and soul-trying work to lead them through to the Promised Land. Their sins had already forfeited the favor of God, and justice called for their destruction. The Lord therefore proposed to destroy them, and make of Moses a mighty nation.{Pr 126.2}[19]
§46
上帝的话是：“你且由着我，我要灭绝他们。”上帝既然定意灭绝以色列人，谁还能为他们代求呢？有什么人不会就让罪人遭受他们自己的厄运，有什么人不会欣然放下一种任劳任怨、自我牺牲的生活，而换来一个安逸和荣誉的地位呢？何况这还是上帝亲自提出的意见呢？ {Pr 126.3}[20]
§47
“Let Me alone, ... that I may consume them,” were the words of God. If God had purposed to destroy Israel, who could plead for them? How few but would have left the sinners to their fate! How few but would have gladly exchanged a lot of toil and burden and sacrifice, repaid with ingratitude and murmuring, for a position of ease and honor, when it was God Himself that offered the release.{Pr 126.3}[20]
§48
但是摩西从那只有表显烈怒和令人沮丧的情形之中看出一线的希望来。他明白上帝所说“你且由着我”的话，不是拦阻，反而是鼓励他代求。意思是，除了摩西的祷告之外，别无拯救以色列人的办法。如果摩西为他们代求，上帝必要饶恕祂的子民。……?{Pr 126.4}[21]
§49
But Moses discerned ground for hope where there appeared only discouragement and wrath. The words of God, “Let Me alone,” he understood not to forbid but to encourage intercession, implying that nothing but the prayers of Moses could save?Israel, but that if thus entreated, God would spare His people....?{Pr 126.4}[21]
§50
当摩西为以色列人代求的时候，他对于以色列人的爱心和深切的关怀使他在上帝面前放胆恳求。因上帝的手曾藉着他为他们行了这么多的事，于是上帝垂听了他的恳求，允准了他无私的祷告。上帝已经试验了祂的仆人；祂已经考验了他的忠实和他对那常犯错误与忘恩负义之百姓的爱心，而摩西也胜利地忍受了试炼。他对于以色列的关心乃是出于无私的动机。在摩西看来，上帝选民的兴盛比他自己的尊荣更为重要，比他成为一个大国之父的特权更为可贵。上帝赞许他的忠诚，天真和正直，就以他为忠心的牧人，把率领以色列进入应许之地的责任托付给他。（PP 318, 319.){Pr 127.1}[22]
§51
As Moses interceded for Israel, his timidity was lost in his deep interest and love for those for whom he had, in the hands of God, been the means of doing so much. The Lord listened to his pleadings, and granted his unselfish prayer. God had proved His servant; He had tested his faithfulness and his love for that erring, ungrateful people, and nobly had Moses endured the trial. His interest in Israel sprang from no selfish motive. The prosperity of God’s chosen people was dearer to him than personal honor, dearer than the privilege of becoming the father of a mighty nation. God was pleased with his faithfulness, his simplicity of heart, and his integrity, and He committed to him, as a faithful shepherd, the great charge of leading Israel to the Promised Land.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 318, 319.){Pr 127.1}[22]
§52
摩西继续向上帝恳求——摩西熟知那些在他手下，由他照顾之人的刚愎顽梗和盲目无知；他也知道自己所要应付的种种艰难。但他已经学会了，为了劝服百姓，他必须有上帝那里来的帮助。所以他恳求上帝将祂的旨意更清楚地启示给他，并应许与他同在。他求告说：“祢吩咐我说，将这百姓领上去；却没有叫我知道祢要打发谁与我同去。只说，我按你的名认识你，你在我眼前也蒙了恩。我如今若在祢眼前蒙恩，求祢将祢的道指示我，使我可以认识祢，好在祢眼前蒙恩；求祢想到这民是祢的民。”{Pr 127.2}[23]
§53
Moses Continued to Press His Petitions to God—Moses knew well the perversity and blindness of those who were placed under his care; he knew the difficulties with which he must contend. But he had learned that in order to prevail with the people, he must have help from God. He pleaded for a clearer revelation of God’s will and for an assurance of His presence: “See, Thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and Thou hast not let me know whom Thou wilt send with me. Yet Thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in My sight. Now therefore, I pray Thee, if I have found grace in Thy sight, show me now Thy way, that I may know Thee, that I may find grace in Thy sight: and consider that this nation is Thy people.”{Pr 127.2}[23]
§54
上帝回答说：“我必亲自和你同去，使你得安息。”但摩西还不满意。他想到，万一上帝任凭以色列顽梗不化，必有什么可怕的结果，这使他非常恐惧不安。他不忍见自己的利益与他弟兄的利益分离，所以他恳求上帝恢复祂对于祂子民的眷爱，并求祂同在的象征继续引领他们的行程：“祢若不亲自和我同去，就不要把我们从这里领上去。人在何事上得以知道我和祢的百姓，在祢眼前蒙恩呢？岂不是因祢与我们同去，使我和祢的百姓，与地上的万民有分别吗？”?{Pr 127.3}[24]
§55
The answer was, “My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.” But Moses was not yet satisfied. There pressed upon his soul a sense of the terrible results should God leave Israel to hardness and impenitence. He could not endure that his interests should be separated from those of his brethren, and he prayed that the favor of God might be restored to His people, and that the token of His presence might continue to direct their journeyings: “If Thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and Thy people have found grace in Thy sight? is it not in?that Thou goest with us? So shall we be separated, I and Thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth.”?{Pr 127.3}[24]
§56
耶和华说：“你这所求的我也要行，因为你在我眼前蒙了恩，并且我按你的名认识你。”但先知摩西仍然没有停止他的恳求。他的每一项要求虽然都已蒙了应允，但他渴望得到上帝眷爱他的更大的凭据。这时他提出一个世人从来没有提过的要求说：“求祢显出祢的荣耀给我看。”{Pr 128.1}[25]
§57
And the Lord said, “I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in My sight, and I know thee by name.” Still the prophet did not cease pleading. Every prayer had been answered, but he thirsted for greater tokens of God’s favor. He now made a request that no human being had ever made before: “I beseech Thee, show me Thy glory.”{Pr 128.1}[25]
§58
上帝没有责备摩西的要求为胆大僭越；只是用慈爱的言语回答他说：“我要显我一切的恩慈，在你面前经过。”没有人能在必死的身体中，直接看见上帝的荣耀而仍得存活；但上帝应许摩西，他可以照着他所能受的限度看见上帝的荣耀。于是上帝又召他上山顶去；随后用祂创造世界的手，就是那一只“把山翻倒挪移，山并不知觉”的手（伯9:5）， 将这用尘土造成的人，就是信心的勇士摩西，放在磐石穴中；那时，上帝的荣耀和祂一切的恩慈便从他面前经过。{Pr 128.2}[26]
§59
God did not rebuke his request as presumptuous; but the gracious words were spoken, “I will make all My goodness pass before thee.” The unveiled glory of God, no man in this mortal state can look upon and live; but Moses was assured that he should behold as much of the divine glory as he could endure. Again he was summoned to the mountain summit; then the hand that made the world, that hand that “removeth the mountains, and they know not” (Job 9:5), took this creature of the dust, this mighty man of faith, and placed him in a cleft of the rock, while the glory of God and all His goodness passed before him.{Pr 128.2}[26]
§60
这一个经验──特别是上帝和他同在的应许──在摩西看来，是他当前工作成功的保证；他认为这比埃及一切的学问，或他作为政治家或军事家的一切成就，远有价值。地上的权力，技能或学问，决不能代替上帝经常与他同在的福分。（PP 327，328）){Pr 128.3}[27]
§61
This experience—above all else the promise that the divine Presence would attend him—was to Moses an assurance of success in the work before him; and he counted it of infinitely greater worth than all the learning of Egypt or all his attainments as a statesman or a military leader. No earthly power or skill or learning can supply the place of God’s abiding presence.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 327, 328.){Pr 128.3}[27]
§62
在压力之下，摩西的祷告几乎成了抱怨———摩西百感交集，意志消沉了。他曾求告上帝不要毁灭以色列，虽然当时他自己的子孙可以成为大国。他曾因爱他们而祷告上帝，宁可自己的名字从生命册上被涂抹，而不愿他们灭亡。他曾为他们遭遇一切危险，而他们的报答竟是如此。他们把一切的困难，连幻想的痛苦，都怪罪于他；他们恶毒的怨言使他难以负担的忧虑和责任更加沉重。他在苦恼之中险些对于上帝也失了信心。他的祷告几乎是诉苦了。他向耶和华说：“祢为何若待仆人，我为何不在祢眼前蒙恩，竟把这管理百姓的重任加在我身上呢？……我从哪里得肉给这百姓吃呢？他们都向我哭号说：你给我们肉吃吧。管理这百姓的责任太重了，我独自担当不起。”{Pr 128.4}[28]
§63
Under Stress, Moses’ Prayer Was Almost a Complaint—The heart of Moses sank. He had pleaded that Israel should not be destroyed, even though his own posterity might then become a great nation. In his love for them he had prayed that his name might be blotted from the book of life rather than that they should be left to perish. He had imperiled all for them, and this was their response. All their hardships, even their imaginary sufferings, they charged upon him; and their wicked murmurings made doubly heavy the burden of care and responsibility under which he staggered. In his distress he was tempted even to distrust God. His?prayer was almost a complaint. “Wherefore hast Thou afflicted Thy servant? and wherefore have I not found favor in Thy sight, that Thou layest the burden of all this people upon me? ... Whence should I have flesh to give unto all this people? for they weep unto me, saying, Give us flesh, that we may eat. I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me.”?{Pr 128.4}[28]
§64
耶和华垂听了他的祷告，并指示他从以色列的长老中招集七十个人来，──这些人不但年长，而且具有高贵的威严，正确的判断和丰富的经验。他说：“领他们到会幕前，使他们和你一同站立。我要在那里降临与你说话；也要把降于你身上的灵分赐他们，他们就和你同当这管百姓的重任，免得你独自担当。”（PP379，380）{Pr 129.1}[29]
§65
The Lord hearkened to his prayer, and directed him to summon seventy men of the elders of Israel—men not only advanced in years, but possessing dignity, sound judgment, and experience. “And bring them unto the tabernacle of the congregation,” He said, “that they may stand there with thee. And I will come down and talk with thee there: and I will take of the spirit which is upon thee, and will put it upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear it not thyself alone.”(Patriarchs and Prophets, 379, 380.){Pr 129.1}[29]
§66
摩西祈求怜悯以色列人——这时摩西起来进了会幕。耶和华对他说：“我要用瘟疫击杀他们，使他们不得承受那地，叫你的后裔成为大国。”但摩西又为百姓代求。他不能同意他们受毁灭而自己成为大国。于是他恳求上帝的慈怜，说：“现在求主大显能力，照祢所说过的话说，耶和华不轻易发怒，并有丰盛的慈爱，……求祢照祢的大慈爱，赦免这百姓的罪孽，好像祢从埃及到如今，常赦免他们一样。”{Pr 129.2}[30]
§67
Moses Prayed for Mercy for Israel—Moses now arose and entered the tabernacle. The Lord declared to him, “I will smite them with the pestilence, and disinherit them, and will make of thee a greater nation.” But again Moses pleaded for his people. He could not consent to have them destroyed, and he himself made a mightier nation. Appealing to the mercy of God, he said: “I beseech Thee, let the power of my Lord be great according as Thou hast spoken, saying, The Lord is long-suffering, and of great mercy.... Pardon, I beseech Thee, the iniquity of this people according to the greatness of Thy mercy, and as Thou hast forgiven this people, from Egypt even until now.”{Pr 129.2}[30]
§68
耶和华应许不将以色列人立时毁灭，但因他们的不信和胆怯，祂就不能显示祂的能力来制服他们的仇敌。所以祂凭着怜悯嘱咐他们转回红海去，作他们唯一的安全之路。（PP 390，391）{Pr 129.3}[31]
§69
The Lord promised to spare Israel from immediate destruction; but because of their unbelief and cowardice He could not manifest His power to subdue their enemies. Therefore in His mercy He bade them, as the only safe course, to turn back toward the Red Sea.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 390, 391.){Pr 129.3}[31]
§70
摩西的祷告使以色列人免遭惩罚——当百姓注视着这即将永远离别的老人时，他们就存着前所未曾有而深切感戴的心情，回想他父母般的慈爱，他智慧的劝戒和他不倦的劳碌。每当他们犯了罪，招致上帝公义的刑罚时，摩西曾多少次为他们代求，使他们免于死亡！他们在悲凄之余，又深觉悔恨。他们懊恼地回忆起自己的刚愎曾如何使摩西犯罪，连累他必须死亡。（PP 470）?{Pr 129.4}[32]
§71
Moses’ Prayers Spared the Israelites From God’s Judgments—As the people gazed upon the aged man, so soon to be?taken from them, they recalled, with a new and deeper appreciation, his parental tenderness, his wise counsels, and his untiring labors. How often, when their sins had invited the just judgments of God, the prayers of Moses had prevailed with Him to spare them! Their grief was heightened by remorse. They bitterly remembered that their own perversity had provoked Moses to the sin for which he must die.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 470.)?{Pr 129.4}[32]
§72
摩西最后的祈祷在变像的山上应验——除了基督的牺牲之外，上帝的公义和慈爱从来没有象祂在对待摩西的事上那么显著地表现出来。上帝不准摩西进入迦南，为要给人一个永远不能忘记的教训，──就是祂要人严格地顺从；并且应当谨慎，不可把他们创造主当得的荣耀归给自己。祂虽然未能答应摩西要求共享以色列之产业的祷告；但祂并没有忘记，也没有丢弃祂的仆人。天上的上帝明白摩西所忍受的痛苦，祂也曾注意他在多年的苦难和试炼之中所作每一件忠心的服务。结果，在毗斯迦山顶上，上帝让摩西承受那比地上迦南更光荣的产业。{Pr 130.1}[33]
§73
Moses’ Final Prayer Fulfilled at the Mount of Transfiguration—Never, till exemplified in the sacrifice of Christ, were the justice and the love of God more strikingly displayed than in His dealings with Moses. God shut Moses out of Canaan, to teach a lesson which should never be forgotten—that He requires exact obedience, and that men are to beware of taking to themselves the glory which is due to their Maker. He could not grant the prayer of Moses that he might share the inheritance of Israel, but He did not forget or forsake His servant. The God of heaven understood the suffering that Moses had endured; He had noted every act of faithful service through those long years of conflict and trial. On the top of Pisgah, God called Moses to an inheritance infinitely more glorious than the earthly Canaan.{Pr 130.1}[33]
§74
在基督变像的山上，摩西曾和那变化升天的以利亚一同出现。他们是奉天父差派，要把光明与荣耀带给祂儿子的。这样，摩西在一千多年以前的祷告终于蒙应允了。他站在他百姓地业之内的那“佳美的山地”之上，为以色列人所承受一切应许之中心的主作见证。这就是那为上天所如此重视之人的历史最后向世人显示的一幕。（PP 479）{Pr 130.2}[34]
§75
Upon the mount of transfiguration Moses was present with Elijah, who had been translated. They were sent as bearers of light and glory from the Father to His Son. And thus the prayer of Moses, uttered so many centuries before, was at last fulfilled. He stood upon the “goodly mountain,” within the heritage of his people, bearing witness to Him in whom all the promises to Israel centered. Such is the last scene revealed to mortal vision in the history of that man so highly honored of Heaven.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 479.){Pr 130.2}[34]
§76
哈拿的榜样鼓励每一位母亲——哈拿从示罗平安地回到拉玛的家；把孩子撒母耳留在示罗，使他在大祭司的指导之下受训练，学习在上帝的殿中服务。哈拿从她儿子知识初开的时候就已经教训他敬爱上帝，并看自己是属于耶和华的人。她曾设法利用他周围一些普通的事物来引导他的思想归向创造主。当这位忠实的母亲和孩子分离的时候，她还是一直挂念着她的爱子。她每天祷告时总是为他代求。她每年亲手为他作一件小外袍；当她同丈夫上示罗朝拜上帝的时候，就带给他，作为母爱的纪念。这件外袍的一针一线可说都是祈祷缝成的；她祈求上帝使穿这小袍的孩子能成为一个纯洁，高尚，忠实的人。哈拿从来没有为她儿子要求属世的尊荣，只是恳切地为他祷告，使他可以达到上天所认为伟大的地步，──使他可以荣耀上帝，造福人群。?{Pr 130.3}[35]
§77
【Hannah】
§78
Hannah’s Example an Encouragement to Every Mother—From Shiloh, Hannah quietly returned to her home at Ramah, leaving the child Samuel to be trained for service in the house of God,?under the instruction of the high priest. From the earliest dawn of intellect she had taught her son to love and reverence God and to regard himself as the Lord’s. By every familiar object surrounding him she had sought to lead his thoughts up to the Creator. When separated from her child, the faithful mother’s solicitude did not cease. Every day he was the subject of her prayers. Every year she made, with her own hands, a robe of service for him; and as she went up with her husband to worship at Shiloh, she gave the child this reminder of her love. Every fiber of the little garment had been woven with a prayer that he might be pure, noble, and true. She did not ask for her son worldly greatness, but she earnestly pleaded that he might attain that greatness which Heaven values—that he might honor God and bless his fellow men.?{Pr 130.3}[35]
§79
哈拿所得到的报尝是何等的丰厚啊！她的榜样对于忠心之人的鼓励又是何等的有力啊！每一个母亲都有无上宝贵的机会和权利。我们应当把一般妇女所视为烦累重担的家务，看作伟大而高尚的工作。母亲的特权乃是用她的影响使世人得福。而且她这样作，也必使自己得到喜乐。她可以为儿女的脚步打开正直的道路，使他们无论在顺境或逆境之中，都可登到天国光荣的高原之上。但是母亲惟有在自己的生活上追求顺从基督的教训，才能依照上帝的标准塑造儿女的品格。世界充斥着许多腐化的影响；其风俗和习惯在青年人身上有极大的感化力。如果母亲没有尽到教训，引导和禁戒的本分，则她的儿女必致趋向邪恶，离弃良善。每一个母亲务要时常到救主面前祈求说：“指教我们，”“我们当怎样待这孩子，他后来当怎样呢？”她务要留意上帝在圣经中所赐的教导。这样，当她需要的时候，就必有智慧赐给她。（PP 572，573）{Pr 131.1}[36]
§80
What a reward was Hannah’s! and what an encouragement to faithfulness is her example! There are opportunities of inestimable worth, interests infinitely precious, committed to every mother. The humble round of duties which women have come to regard as a wearisome task should be looked upon as a grand and noble work. It is the mother’s privilege to bless the world by her influence, and in doing this she will bring joy to her own heart. She may make straight paths for the feet of her children, through sunshine and shadow, to the glorious heights above. But it is only when she seeks, in her own life, to follow the teachings of Christ that the mother can hope to form the character of her children after the divine pattern. The world teems with corrupting influences. Fashion and custom exert a strong power over the young. If the mother fails in her duty to instruct, guide, and restrain, her children will naturally accept the evil, and turn from the good. Let every mother go often to her Saviour with the prayer, “Teach us, how shall we order the child, and what shall we do unto him?” Let her heed the instruction which God has given in His word, and wisdom will be given her as she shall have need.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 572, 573.){Pr 131.1}[36]
§81
哈拿是祈祷的女性——哈拿没有因她丈夫不智的婚姻而责备他。她的忧伤没有地上的朋友能分担，她便将自己的忧伤带到天父面前，寻求惟独祂能给予的安慰。祂说过：“要在患难之日求告我；我必搭救你”（诗50:15）。祈祷中含有强大的力量。我们的大仇敌不断设法让忧虑的心离开上帝。但最卑微的圣徒向上天所发的呼吁，也比政府的法规或君王的命令更加令撒但惧怕。{Pr 131.2}[37]
§82
Hannah Was a Woman of Prayer—Hannah brought no reproach against her husband for his unwise marriage. The grief?which she could share with no earthly friend, she carried to her Heavenly Father, and sought consolation from Him alone who hath said, “Call upon me in the day of trouble, and I will deliver thee.” There is a mighty power in prayer. Our great adversary is constantly seeking to keep the troubled soul away from God. An appeal to Heaven by the humblest saint is more to be dreaded by Satan than the decrees of cabinets or the mandates of kings.?{Pr 131.2}[37]
§83
哈拿的祷告虽然没有被凡人的耳朵听见，却进入万军之耶和华的耳中。她恳求上帝除掉她的羞辱，赐给她当时的女性所十分重视的福惠，——作母亲的福气。她在祷告中角力的时候，不出声音，只动嘴唇，脸上的表情极为恳切。而今又有一个考验等着这位谦卑的恳求者了。大祭司以利定睛看她，马上就断定她是喝醉了。在以色列人中，狂宴几乎代替了真敬虔。不节制的事，甚至在妇女中间也常有发生，所以以利认为有责任提出责备。“你要醉到几时呢？你不应该喝酒”（撒上1:14）。{Pr 132.1}[38]
§84
Hannah’s prayer was unheard by mortal ear, but entered the ear of the Lord of hosts. Earnestly she pleaded that God would take away her reproach, and grant her the boon most highly prized by women of that age,—the blessing of motherhood. As she wrestled in prayer, her voice uttered no sound, but her lips moved and her countenance gave evidence of deep emotion. And now another trial awaited the humble suppliant. As the eye of Eli the high priest fell upon her, he hastily decided that she was intoxicated. Feasting revelry had well-nigh supplanted true godliness among the people of Israel. Instances of intemperance, even among women, were of frequent occurrence, and now Eli determined to administer what he considered a deserved rebuke. “How long wilt thou be drunken? Put away thy wine from thee.”{Pr 132.1}[38]
§85
哈拿一直在与上帝交谈。她相信自己的祷告已蒙垂听，基督的平安也充满了她的心。她生性温柔敏感，可是她既没有屈服于忧伤也没有因在上帝的殿中受到不公正的指责而愤慨。她以对耶和华的受膏者应有的尊敬，从容地抵制了谴责，陈明了自己情绪的缘由。“主啊，不是这样。我是心里愁苦的妇人，清酒浓酒都没有喝，但在耶和华面前倾心吐意。不要将婢女看作不正经的女子。我因被人激动，愁苦太多，所以祈求到如今。”以利既确信自己的责备是不公正的，就回答说：“你可以平平安安的回去。愿以色列的上帝允准你向祂所求的”（撒上1:15-17）。{Pr 132.2}[39]
§86
Hannah had been communing with God. She believed that her prayer had been heard, and the peace of Christ filled her heart. Hers was a gentle, sensitive nature, yet she yielded neither to grief nor to indignation at the unjust charge of drunkenness in the house of God. With due reverence for the anointed of the Lord, she calmly repelled the accusation and stated the cause of her emotion. “No my Lord, I am a woman of sorrowful spirit. I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the Lord. Count not thine handmaid for a daughter of Belial, for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief have I spoken hitherto.” Convinced that his reproof had been unjust, Eli replied, “Go in peace, and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him.”{Pr 132.2}[39]
§87
哈拿在祷告中立了一个誓约，上帝若允准她的恳求，她就要使这个孩子侍奉上帝。她将这个誓约告诉了她的丈夫，他就在离开示罗前以严肃的敬拜确立了这个约。?{Pr 132.3}[40]
§88
In her prayer, Hannah had made a vow that if her request were granted, she would dedicate her child to the service of God. This vow she made known to her husband, and he confirmed?it in a solemn act of worship, before leaving Shiloh.?{Pr 132.3}[40]
§89
哈拿的祷告蒙了应允，她得到了所恳切求来的恩赐。她看着上帝恩惠的保证，便给孩子起名叫撒母耳——向上帝求来的。(ST.1881.10.27){Pr 133.1}[41]
§90
Hannah’s prayer was answered, and she received the gift for which she had so earnestly entreated. As she looked upon the pledge of divine favor she called the child Samuel—Asked of God.—(The Signs of the Times, October 27, 1881.){Pr 133.1}[41]
§91
【以利亚】
§92
以利亚为以色列人的悔改祈祷——当亚哈的日子，在约但河东基列的群山之间，住着一个大有信心，时常祈祷的提斯比人以利亚。他那无畏的服务注定是要遏制那在以色列中迅速蔓延的背道之风。他虽然住在偏僻的山间，离大城甚远，又没有占据崇高的地位，但他开始工作时，深信上帝必要在他面前预备道路，并帮助他大获成功。他的口中发出有信心有能力的话语；他奉献一生从事于改革的工作。他就是那在旷野中喊着的人声，为要斥责罪恶，抵制邪恶的狂澜。当他来到民众面前谴责罪恶的时候，他的信息对于那些愿意医治因罪恶而患病之心灵的人就成了“基列的乳香”。 {Pr 133.2}[42]
§93
【Elijah】
§94
Elijah Prayed for Israel’s Repentance—Among the mountains of Gilead, east of the Jordan, there dwelt in the days of Ahab a man of faith and prayer whose fearless ministry was destined to check the rapid spread of apostasy in Israel. Far removed from any city of renown, and occupying no high station in life, Elijah the Tishbite nevertheless entered upon his mission confident in God’s purpose to prepare the way before him and to give him abundant success. The word of faith and power was upon his lips, and his whole life was devoted to the work of reform. His was the voice of one crying in the wilderness to rebuke sin and press back the tide of evil. And while he came to the people as a reprover of sin, his message offered the balm of Gilead to the sin-sick souls of all who desired to be healed.{Pr 133.2}[42]
§95
当以利亚看到以色列越来越深地陷入拜偶像的罪时，他的心灵就非常悲痛，他的义愤也激发起来了。上帝已经为祂的子民行了大事。祂已拯救他们脱离奴役，并将“列国的地赐给他们，……好使他们遵祂的律例，守祂的律法”（诗105:44,45）。如今他们几乎完全忘记了耶和华慈悲的旨意。上帝所拣选的国度因不信而快要与他们能力的泉源隔断了。以利亚从他山间的退隐之处看到这种背道的情形，他几乎被忧愁所压倒了。他心灵惨痛地恳求上帝阻止这一度蒙爱之子民的邪恶行径，如果必要的话，降刑罚在他们身上，使他们看出自己远离上帝的真相。他渴望看到他们悔改，以免恶贯满盈，惹起耶和华的怒气，全然毁灭他们。{Pr 133.3}[43]
§96
As Elijah saw Israel going deeper and deeper into idolatry, his soul was distressed and his indignation aroused. God had done great things for His people. He had delivered them from bondage and given them “the lands of the heathen, ... that they might observe His statutes, and keep His laws.”?Psalm 105:44, 45. But the beneficent designs of Jehovah were now well-nigh forgotten. Unbelief was fast separating the chosen nation from the Source of their strength. Viewing this apostasy from his mountain retreat, Elijah was overwhelmed with sorrow. In anguish of soul he besought God to arrest the once-favored people in their wicked course, to visit them with judgments, if need be, that they might be led to see in its true light their departure from Heaven. He longed to see them brought to repentance before they should go to such lengths in evil-doing as to provoke the Lord to destroy them utterly.{Pr 133.3}[43]
§97
以利亚的祈祷蒙了应允。多次的恳劝，告戒和警告都没有使以色列人悔改。时候已到，上帝必须用施降刑罚来向他们说话了。敬拜巴力的人既然声称上天的珍宝──雨露──不是从耶和华而来，而是出于自然的能力，并声称地土之所以能肥沃并结出富饶的产物，乃是由于太阳的创造之能，所以上帝的咒诅就重重地降在这被玷污的地上。这样，就可以向背道的以色列各支派显明：他们依靠巴力的权能以求得属世的福惠是何等愚妄。他们若不悔改归向上帝，并承认祂为一切福惠之源，耶和华就不降露，也不下雨在地上。（PK .119，120）E{Pr 134.1}[44]
§98
Elijah’s prayer was answered. Oft-repeated appeals, remonstrances, and warnings had failed to bring Israel to repentance. The time had come when God must speak to them by means of judgments. Inasmuch as the worshipers of Baal claimed that the treasures of heaven, the dew and the rain, came not from Jehovah, but from the ruling forces of nature, and that it was through the creative energy of the sun that the earth was enriched and made to bring forth abundantly, the curse of God was to rest heavily upon the polluted land. The apostate tribes of Israel were to be shown the folly of trusting to the power of Baal for temporal blessings. Until they should turn to God with repentance, and acknowledge Him as the source of all blessing, there should fall upon the land neither dew nor rain.—(Prophets and Kings, 119, 120.){Pr 134.1}[44]
§99
以色列人对上帝的敬畏日益减退。他们盲目崇拜偶像的亵渎记号在上帝的以色列民中到处可见。没有一个人胆敢冒着生命危险站出来反对流行亵渎的拜偶像之风。到处都有敬拜巴力的祭坛，向日月星辰献祭的巴力的先知。他们有献祭的庙宇和柱像，其中供有人手所造的东西。上帝所赐给这班百姓的恩惠丝毫没有唤起他们对赐予者的感激之情。他们将上天一切的恩赐──川流潺潺的溪涧，活水滚滚的江河，滋润地土使之出产富饶的甘露和时雨──都归功于他们所敬拜的假神。{Pr 134.2}[45]
§100
The fear of God was daily growing less in Israel. The blasphemous tokens of their blind idolatry were to be seen among the Israel of God. There were none who dared to expose their lives by openly standing forth in opposition to the prevailing blasphemous idolatry. The altars of Baal, and the priests of Baal who sacrificed to the sun, moon, and stars, were conspicuous everywhere. They had consecrated temples and groves, wherein was placed the work of men’s hands to worship. The benefits which God gave to this people called forth from them no gratitude to the Giver. For all the bounties of Heaven, the running brooks, and streams of living waters, the gentle dew, and showers of rain to refresh the earth, and to cause their fields to bring forth abundantly, they ascribed to the favor of their gods.{Pr 134.2}[45]
§101
以利亚忠诚的心颇为伤痛。他的义愤被激起了，他为上帝的荣耀而焦急。他看到以色列陷入了可怕的背道之中。当他回顾上帝为以色列人所行的种种大事之时，心中便不胜悲伤和惊愕。但以色列人大都忘记了上帝为他们所做的这一切。以利亚来到上帝面前，以悲痛的心恳求上帝拯救祂的百姓，哪怕必须刑罚他们也可。他呼求上帝不要再从天上的府库中给这些忘恩负义的百姓降下雨露，背道的以色列人徒然指望他们的神，他们用金子、木头、石头所造的偶像，日、月、星辰来灌溉大地，使其富饶多产。耶和华告诉以利亚，祂已经垂听了他的祈祷，要停止降雨露给祂的百姓，直到他们悔改转向上帝。 (RH.1873.9.16)?{Pr 134.3}[46]
§102
Elijah’s faithful soul was grieved. His indignation was aroused, and he was jealous for the glory of God. He saw that Israel was plunged into fearful apostasy. He was overwhelmed with amazement and grief at the apostasy of the people when he called to mind the great things that God had wrought for them. But all this was forgotten by the majority of the people. He went before God, and with his soul wrung with anguish, plead for Him to save His people if it must be by judgments. He plead with God to withhold?from His ungrateful people dew and rain, the treasures of heaven, that apostate Israel might look in vain to their idols of gold, wood, and stone, the sun, moon, and stars, their gods, to water the earth and enrich it, and cause it to bring forth plentifully. God told Elijah He had heard his prayer. He would withhold from His people dew and rain, until they should turn unto Him with repentance.—(The Review and Herald, September 16, 1873.)?{Pr 134.3}[46]
§103
经过长年的干旱与饥荒，以利亚恳切地祈求，巴不得以色列人的心能转离偶像，效忠上帝。先知在忍耐地等候着，同时耶和华的刑罚重重地降于全地。当以利亚看到处处呈现痛苦与缺乏时，他因悲伤而痛心，渴望能得到力量来迅速成就一番改革的工作。但这时上帝正在亲自掌管一切，实施祂的计划，所以祂的仆人只能凭着信心继续祈祷，静待时机，以便采取决断性的行动。（PK 133）{Pr 135.1}[47]
§104
Through the long years of drought and famine, Elijah prayed earnestly that the hearts of Israel might be turned from idolatry to allegiance to God. Patiently the prophet waited, while the hand of the Lord rested heavily on the stricken land. As he saw evidences of suffering and want multiplying on every side, his heart was wrung with sorrow, and he longed for power to bring about a reformation quickly. But God Himself was working out His plan, and all that His servant could do was to pray on in faith and await the time for decided action.—(Prophets and Kings, 133.){Pr 135.1}[47]
§105
以利亚藉着恳切的祷告得胜的榜样——我们应该多作私下的祈祷。基督是葡萄树，你们是枝子。如果我们要滋长而茂盛，就必须不断地从那“活的葡萄树”吸取液汁和营养；因为我们离开了那“葡萄树”就没有能力。{Pr 135.2}[48]
§106
Elijah an Example of One Who Prevailed Through Earnest Prayer—We should be much in secret prayer. Christ is the vine, ye are the branches. And if we would grow and flourish, we must continually draw sap and nourishment from the Living Vine; for separated from the Vine we have no strength.{Pr 135.2}[48]
§107
我问那位天使，为什么以色列中没有更多的信心和能力。他说：“你们放松主的膀臂过早了。要将你们的请求，呈送到宝座那里，并凭着坚固的信心坚持下去。应许原是可靠的。只要相信你们得着所求的事物，你们就必得着。”随后又为我指出以利亚，他与我们是一样性情的人，但他恳切地祷告了。他的信心经受了考验。他七次在主面前祷告，最后看见了云彩。我看出我们曾因怀疑那些确定的应许，并因缺乏信心而使救主伤痛。天使说：“你们务要穿戴军装，最要紧的是要拿起信心的盾牌；因这盾牌能保护心灵，就是生命，脱离那恶者的火箭。”如果仇敌能致使沮丧灰心的人转眼不仰望耶稣，而是看自己，详述自己的不配，而不凝思默想耶稣的配得，祂的仁爱，祂的功劳和祂伟大的怜悯，他就必把他们信心的盾牌夺去，而达到他的目的；他们也就要受到火焰般试探的攻击。故此软弱的人应当仰望耶稣，并信靠祂；这样，他们才能运用信心。（EW 73)?{Pr 135.3}[49]
§108
I asked the angel why there was no more faith and power in Israel. He said, “Ye let go of the arm of the Lord too soon. Press your petitions to the throne, and hold on by strong faith. The promises are sure. Believe ye receive the things ye ask for, and ye shall have them.” I was then pointed to Elijah. He was subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly. His faith endured the trial. Seven times he prayed before the Lord, and at last the cloud was seen. I saw that we had doubted the sure promises, and wounded the Saviour by our lack of faith. Said the angel, “Gird the armor about thee, and above all take the shield of faith; for that will guard the heart, the very life, from the fiery darts of the wicked.” If the enemy can lead the desponding to take their eyes off from Jesus, and look to themselves, and dwell upon their own?unworthiness, instead of dwelling upon the worthiness of Jesus, His love, His merits, and His great mercy, he will get away their shield of faith and gain his object; they will be exposed to his fiery temptations. The weak should therefore look to Jesus, and believe in Him; they then exercise faith.—(Early Writings, 73.)?{Pr 135.3}[49]
§109
上帝的使者若要在工作上取得成功，就要长期与祂同在。有一个故事说到英国兰开夏有一位老年妇女，听邻居们讲论他们传道人成功的秘诀。他们提到他的天赋，他演讲的方式和态度等。那位老妇人说：“都不是的。我来告诉你们他的秘诀是什么吧。你们的传道人与全能者有亲密的交往。”{Pr 136.1}[50]
§110
God’s messengers must tarry long with Him, if they would have success in their work. The story is told of an old Lancashire woman who was listening to the reasons that her neighbors gave for their minister’s success. They spoke of his gifts, of his style of address, of his manners. “Nay,” said the old woman, “I will tell you what it is. Your man is very thick with the Almighty.”{Pr 136.1}[50]
§111
当人象以利亚那样献身，并拥有他那样的信心时，上帝就会象从前一样向他显现。人若象雅各那样恳求主，当年的效果就会重现。上帝必赐能力回答信心的祈祷。（GW 255){Pr 136.2}[51]
§112
When men are as devoted as Elijah was and possess the faith that he had, God will reveal Himself as He did then. When men plead with the Lord as did Jacob, the results that were seen then will again be seen. Power will come from God in answer to the prayer of faith.—(Gospel Workers, 255.){Pr 136.2}[51]
§113
以利亚在迦密山上的祷告得到神奇的应允——以利亚将百姓招致耶和华忿怒的长期背道提醒他们，并呼召他们自卑，归向他们列祖的上帝，那么以色列全地所蒙受的咒诅必可消除。于是他恭恭敬敬地跪在那看不见的上帝面前，向天举起双手，献上简单的祷告。巴力的先知已经从清早直到午后尖声喊叫，口中流沫，狂蹦乱跳；但以利亚祷告时，迦密山上并没有听见无谓的尖叫。他祷告的方式表明他知道耶和华就在那里看见一切景象，听见他的恳求。巴力先知的祷告乃断断续续的胡言乱语。以利亚的祷告简单热切，祈求上帝彰显祂超过巴力的权能，使以色列人可以归向祂。{Pr 136.3}[52]
§114
Elijah’s Prayer on Mount Carmel Was Answered Dramatically—Reminding the people of the long-continued apostasy that has awakened the wrath of Jehovah, Elijah calls upon them to humble their hearts and turn to the God of their fathers, that the curse upon the land of Israel may be removed. Then, bowing reverently before the unseen God, he raises his hands toward heaven and offers a simple prayer. Baal’s priests have screamed and foamed and leaped, from early morning until late in the afternoon; but as Elijah prays, no senseless shrieks resound over Carmel’s height. He prays as if he knows Jehovah is there, a witness to the scene, a listener to his appeal. The prophets of Baal have prayed wildly, incoherently. Elijah prays simply and fervently, asking God to show His superiority over Baal, that Israel may be led to turn to Him.{Pr 136.3}[52]
§115
先知恳求说：“亚伯拉罕、以撒、以色列的上帝，耶和华啊，求祢今日使人知道祢是以色列的上帝，也知道我是祢的仆人，又是奉祢的命行这一切事。耶和华啊，求祢应允我，应允我，使这民知道祢耶和华是上帝，又知道是祢叫这民的心回转”（王上18:36，37）。{Pr 136.4}[53]
§116
“Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel,” the prophet pleads, “let it be known this day that Thou art God in Israel, and that I am Thy servant, and that I have done all these things at Thy word. Hear me, O Lord, hear me, that this people may know that Thou art the Lord God, and that Thou hast turned their heart back again.”{Pr 136.4}[53]
§117
一种沉默的严肃感压在众人心上。巴力的先知恐惧战兢。他们自觉有罪，等待迅速的报应。{Pr 137.1}[54]
§118
A silence, oppressive in its solemnity, rests upon all. The priests of Baal tremble with terror. Conscious of their guilt, they look for swift retribution.{Pr 137.1}[54]
§119
以利亚的祷告一完毕，就有火从天降下，象闪闪的电光一样，落在那筑好的坛上，烧尽燔祭，烧干了沟里的水，并且连坛上的石头也烧尽了。火焰的光芒照亮全山，使众人目眩。山谷下有许多人正焦急不安地注视着山上的动静，他们清楚地看见有火从天降下，众人无不因而惊异万状。这火与从前过红海时把以色列民和埃及人分开的火炷相似。（PK 152，153）{Pr 137.2}[55]
§120
No sooner is the prayer of Elijah ended than flames of fire, like brilliant flashes of lightning, descend from heaven upon the upreared altar, consuming the sacrifice, licking up the water in the trench, and consuming even the stones of the altar. The brilliancy of the blaze illumines the mountain and dazzles the eyes of the multitude. In the valleys below, where many are watching in anxious suspense the movements of those above, the descent of fire is clearly seen, and all are amazed at the sight. It resembles the pillar of fire which at the Red Sea separated the children of Israel from the Egyptian host.—(Prophets and Kings, 152, 153.){Pr 137.2}[55]
§121
以利亚的祷告是凭着信心提说上帝的应许——巴力的先知被杀这一件事，已经为在北国的十个支派中进行伟大的属灵改革预备道路。以利亚已经将百姓背道的罪摆在他们面前；他也已呼召他们自卑，归向耶和华。上天的刑罚已经执行；百姓已经承认他们的罪，并承认他们列祖的上帝为永生的上帝；如今上天的咒诅即将撤消，今生属世的福分即将恢复；雨水即将滋润全地了。“以利亚对亚哈说：你现在可以上去吃喝；因为有多雨的响声了。亚哈就上去吃喝”。于是先知“上了迦密山顶”（王上18:41，42）去祷告。{Pr 137.3}[56]
§122
Elijah’s Prayers Reached Out in Faith to Claim God’s Promises—With the slaying of the prophets of Baal, the way was opened for carrying forward a mighty spiritual reformation among the ten tribes of the northern kingdom. Elijah had set before the people their apostasy; he had called upon them to humble their hearts and turn to the Lord. The judgments of Heaven had been executed; the people had confessed their sins, and had acknowledged the God of their fathers as the living God; and now the curse of Heaven was to be withdrawn, and the temporal blessings of life renewed. The land was to be refreshed with rain. “Get thee up, eat and drink,” Elijah said to Ahab; “for there is a sound of abundance of rain.” Then the prophet went to the top of the mount to pray.{Pr 137.3}[56]
§123
以利亚之所以能够这么有把握地吩咐亚哈准备应付大雨，并不是因为外表上有什么将要降雨的迹象。先知没有看见云彩，也没有听到雷声。他只是说出耶和华的灵应答他坚强信心的话。在那一整天中，他已无畏地完成了上帝的旨意，并已表现他绝对信任上帝的预言；如今，他既已尽到力量地行了这一切的事，他深知上帝必大量倾降所预言的福惠。这同一位降下旱灾的上帝已经应许沛降甘霖，报赏义行；如今，以利亚等待这所应许中的大雨。他以谦卑的态度“屈身在地，将脸伏在两膝之中，”为悔改的以色列众民向上帝代求。{Pr 137.4}[57]
§124
It was not because of any outward evidence that the showers were about to fall, that Elijah could so confidently bid Ahab prepare for rain. The prophet saw no clouds in the heavens; he heard no thunder. He simply spoke the word that the Spirit of the Lord had moved him to speak in response to his own strong faith. Throughout the day he had unflinchingly performed the will of God and had revealed his implicit confidence in the prophecies of God’s word; and now, having done all that was in his power to do, he knew that Heaven would freely bestow the blessings foretold. The same God?who had sent the drought had promised an abundance of rain as the reward of rightdoing; and now Elijah waited for the promised outpouring. In an attitude of humility, “his face between his knees,” he interceded with God in behalf of penitent Israel.?{Pr 137.4}[57]
§125
以利亚一次又一次地差他仆人上山向地中海观看，要看有没有上帝垂听他祷告的明显记号。仆人每一次回来都说：“没有什么。”先知并没有因此不耐久待或失去信心，却依然恳切祈求。仆人六次回来都说那“变为铜”的天没有什么降雨的迹象。以利亚毫不灰心地再差仆人去看一次；这一次仆人回来说：“我看见有一小片云从海里上来，不过如人手那样大”（王上18:43,44）。{Pr 138.1}[58]
§126
Again and again Elijah sent his servant to a point overlooking the Mediterranean, to learn whether there were any visible token that God had heard his prayer. Each time the servant returned with the word, “There is nothing.” The prophet did not become impatient or lose faith, but continued his earnest pleading. Six times the servant returned with the word that there was no sign of rain in the brassy heavens. Undaunted, Elijah sent him forth once more; and this time the servant returned with the word, “Behold, there ariseth a little cloud out of the sea like a man’s hand.”{Pr 138.1}[58]
§127
这就够了。以利亚并没有等候天空乌云密布。他凭着信心在这一小片云中看出大量的雨水；他的行动与信心相称，立即差遣仆人去告诉亚哈说：“当套车下去，免得被雨阻挡”（王上18:44）。{Pr 138.2}[59]
§128
This was enough. Elijah did not wait for the heavens to gather blackness. In that small cloud he beheld by faith an abundance of rain; and he acted in harmony with his faith, sending his servant quickly to Ahab with the message, “Prepare thy chariot, and get thee down, that the rain stop thee not.”{Pr 138.2}[59]
§129
上帝之所以能在以色列历史的这一次严重危机中使用以利亚，乃是因为他是一个大有信心的人。当他祷告的时候，他伸出信心的手握住上天的应许；而且恒切祷告，直到他的祈求蒙了应允。他没有等待那证明上帝已经垂听他的充分凭据，却愿意根据神恩的最微小的征兆而大胆相信一切。他在上帝的能力之下所作的事，乃是人人在他们为上帝作工的范围之内所可能作的；因为圣经论到那从基列山来的先知这样说：“以利亚与我们是一样性情的人，他恳切祷告，求不要下雨，雨就三年零六个月不下在地上”（雅5:17）。{Pr 138.3}[60]
§130
It was because Elijah was a man of large faith that God could use him in this grave crisis in the history of Israel. As he prayed, his faith reached out and grasped the promises of Heaven, and he persevered in prayer until his petitions were answered. He did not wait for the full evidence that God had heard him, but was willing to venture all on the slightest token of divine favor. And yet what he was enabled to do under God, all may do in their sphere of activity in God’s service; for of the prophet from the mountains of Gilead it is written: “Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.”?James 5:17.{Pr 138.3}[60]
§131
像这样的信心乃是今日的世界所需要，──就是握住上帝的应许，非到上天垂听而决不放松的信心。这样的信心将我们与上天紧密地联接起来，并使我们有力量抗拒黑暗的权势。上帝的儿女因着信已经“制服了敌国，行了公义，得了应许，堵了狮子的口，灭了烈火的猛势，脱了刀剑的锋刃，软弱变为刚强，争战显出勇敢，打退外邦的全军”（来11:33-34）。而我们今日也要因着信达到上帝为我们所定之旨意的高峰。“你若能信，在信的人凡事都能”（可9:23）。?{Pr 138.4}[61]
§132
Faith such as this is needed in the world today—faith that will lay hold on the promises of God’s word and refuse to let go until Heaven hears. Faith such as this connects us closely with Heaven, and brings us strength for coping with the powers of darkness. Through faith God’s children have “subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,?quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.”Hebrews 11:33, 34. And through faith we today are to reach the heights of God’s purpose for us. “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.”?Mark 9:23.?{Pr 138.4}[61]
§133
信心乃是祈祷得胜的要素。“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。”“我们若照祂的旨意求什么，祂就听我们；……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”（来11:6;约壹5:14-15）。我们也可以用雅各那坚忍不拔的信心，和以利亚不屈不挠的恒心，向上帝呈上我们的恳求，提说祂一切的应许。上帝以祂宝座的荣誉作为实现祂应许的保证。（PK 155-158.){Pr 139.1}[62]
§134
Faith is an essential element of prevailing prayer. “He that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.”“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.”?Hebrews 11:6;?1 John 5:14, 15. With the persevering faith of Jacob, with the unyielding persistence of Elijah, we may present our petitions to the Father, claiming all that He has promised. The honor of His throne is staked for the fulfillment of His word.—(Prophets and Kings, 155-158.){Pr 139.1}[62]
§135
以利亚坚持祷告，直至得蒙应允——以利亚的经验给我们带来许多重要的教训。当他在迦密山上求雨之时，他的信心受到了考验。但他坚持向上帝提出他的要求。他六次恳求，仍没有得到应允的迹象，但他仍以坚定的信心在施恩宝座前恳求。他若在第六次祈祷时灰心，他的祈祷就得不到应允，但他坚持祷告，直到得了应允。我们上帝的耳朵并非闭塞听不见我们的祈求。如果我们为祂的话作见证，祂必尊重我们的信心。祂希望将我们的利益与祂的利益融合在一起，这样，祂就能放心地赐福给我们了。因为福气虽已属于我们，我们仍不会将荣耀归于自己，而要将一切赞美都归给上帝。上帝并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，我们可能会认为自己理应得到祂所赐的一切福气和宠爱。如果我们不省察自己的心，看看有没有怀藏什么罪恶，纵容什么罪行，我们就会掉以轻心，不认识自己需要依靠祂和祂的帮助了。{Pr 139.2}[63]
§136
Elijah Persevered in Prayer Until the Answer Came—Important lessons are presented to us in the experience of Elijah. When upon Mt. Carmel he offered the prayer for rain, his faith was tested, but he persevered in making known his request unto God. Six times he prayed earnestly, and yet there was no sign that his petition was granted, but with a strong faith he urged his plea to the throne of grace. Had he given up in discouragement at the sixth time, his prayer would not have been answered, but he persevered till the answer came. We have a God whose ear is not closed to our petitions; and if we prove His word, He will honor our faith. He wants us to have all our interests interwoven with His interests, and then He can safely bless us; for we shall not then take glory to self when the blessing is ours, but shall render all the praise to God. 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 should become careless, and fail to realize our dependence upon Him, and our need of His help.{Pr 139.2}[63]
§137
以利亚谦虚自卑，直至他绝不将荣耀归于自己。这正是上帝垂听祷告的条件，因为这时我们会向上帝献上赞美。称赞人的习惯，会酿成恶果。一个人称赞另一个人，人们就会觉得荣耀和尊贵是属于他们自己的。你高举人，就是为他设下一个网罗，这正是撒但所要你做的。你当尽心、尽意、尽性、尽力赞美上帝，因为只有上帝是配得荣耀的。（2BC. 1034, 1035.){Pr 140.1}[64]
§138
Elijah humbled himself until he was in a condition where he would not take the glory to himself. This is the condition upon which the Lord hears prayer, for then we shall give the praise to Him. The custom of offering praise to men is one that results in great evil. One praises another, and thus men are led to feel that glory and honor belong to them. When you exalt man, you lay a snare for his soul, and do just as Satan would have you. You should praise God with all your heart, soul, might, mind, and strength; for God alone is worthy to be glorified.—(SDA Bible Commentary 2:1034, 1035.){Pr 140.1}[64]
§139
以利亚祷告的时候，仆人在旁边观望。他六次从观察的地方回来说：什么也没有，没有云，也没有下雨的迹象。但先知并没有灰心放弃。他继续省察自己的生活，看看有没有没能尊荣上帝的地方。他承认自己的罪，继续在上帝面前痛悔己心，同时又在关注他的祈祷蒙应允的征兆。他省察自己的内心，对自己的评价越来越低，觉得在上帝的眼中似乎也是如此。他觉得自己一无所有，而上帝拥有一切。当他达到了否定自己，依靠救主为他唯一的力量和公义时，他的祈祷就得到了应允。 (RH.1891.5.26){Pr 140.2}[65]
§140
The servant watched while Elijah prayed. Six times he returned from the watch, saying, There is nothing, no cloud, no sign of rain. But the prophet did not give up in discouragement. He kept reviewing his life, to see where he had failed to honor God, he confessed his sins, and thus continued to afflict his soul before God, while watching for a token that his prayer was answered. As he searched his heart, he seemed to be less and less, both in his own estimation and in the sight of God. It seemed to him that he was nothing, and that God was everything; and when he reached the point of renouncing self, while he clung to the Saviour as his only strength and righteousness, the answer came.—(The Review and Herald, May 26, 1891.){Pr 140.2}[65]
§141
大卫的跌倒警告我们不要忽略祷告——上帝的旨意是要以大卫失足的历史作为一个警告，就是，凡蒙祂特别赐福和恩待的人，万不可自觉安全而忽略儆醒祈祷。这样，一切能虚心领受上帝所赐教训的人都已学到这一点。自古以来，已有千万人从此看出自己易受撒但试探的危险。耶和华所那么尊荣的大卫的堕落，使他们觉悟自己是不可靠的。他们看出，人惟有信靠上帝的能力，才能蒙祂保守。他们既知道自己的能力和安全都在于上帝，所以他们连一步也不敢踏入撒但的阵地。（PP 724）?{Pr 140.3}[66]
§142
【David】
§143
David’s Fall a Warning Not to Neglect Prayer—God intended the history of David’s fall to serve as a warning that even those whom He has greatly blessed and favored are not to feel secure and neglect watchfulness and prayer. And thus it has proved to those who in humility have sought to learn the lesson that God designed to teach. From generation to generation thousands have thus been led to realize their own danger from the tempter’s power. The fall of David, one so greatly honored by the Lord, has awakened in them distrust of self. They have felt that God alone could keep them by His power through faith. Knowing that in Him was?their strength and safety, they have feared to take the first step on Satan’s ground.—(Patriarchs and Prophets, 724.)?{Pr 140.3}[66]
§144
上帝应允大卫祈求恕罪的祷告——圣经里有一篇最真诚的祷告，就是大卫所献的：“上帝啊，求祢为我造清洁的心”（诗51:10）。上帝对这种祷告的答复是：我必赐给你一颗新心。这不是有限的人所能做到的。人们应该在一开始就向上帝恳切追求真正的基督徒经验。他们应体验圣灵创造的能力。他们应当接受上天的恩典所软化的新心。要从心灵中清除自私的精神，认真谦卑地工作，仰赖耶稣的引导和鼓励。这样的优质工程，将成为上帝的圣殿。（4BC. 1165.){Pr 141.1}[67]
§145
God Responded to David’s Prayer for Forgiveness—One of the most earnest prayers recorded in the Word of God is that of David when he plead, “Create in me a clean heart, O God.” God’s response to such a prayer is, A new heart will I give you. This is a work that no finite man can do. Men and women are to begin at the beginning, seeking God most earnestly for a true Christian experience. They are to feel the creative power of the Holy Spirit. They are to receive the new heart, that is kept soft and tender by the grace of heaven. The selfish spirit is to be cleansed from the soul. They are to labor earnestly and with humility of heart, each one looking to Jesus for guidance and encouragement. Then the building, fitly framed together, will grow into a holy temple in the Lord.—(SDA Bible Commentary 4: 1165.){Pr 141.1}[67]
§146
【所罗门】
§147
我们需要学习所罗门谦卑的祷告——所罗门在登基之始，曾求告上帝说：“耶和华我的上帝啊，如今祢使仆人接续我父亲大卫作王，但我是幼童，不知道应当怎样出入”（王上3:7）。{Pr 141.2}[68]
§148
【Solomon】
§149
We Need to Learn the Lesson in Solomon’s Humble Prayer—At the beginning of his reign Solomon prayed: “O Lord my God, Thou hast made Thy servant king instead of David my father: and I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in.”?1 Kings 3:7.{Pr 141.2}[68]
§150
所罗门继续他父亲大卫做以色列的王，上帝使他大得荣耀；我们都知道他后来成了地上从古以来最伟大，最富足，而且最聪明的君王。所罗门初登王位的时候，曾受圣灵的感动，明白自己的责任是何等地重大，他虽已具有充分的才干和能力，但仍然觉得若无神力相助，他只是幼童，无力担负那样的重任。当所罗门在主面前承认说：“我是幼童，不知道应当怎样出入”的时候，这才是他一生最富贵，最聪明，而且真正最伟大的时候。…….{Pr 141.3}[69]
§151
Solomon had succeeded his father David to the throne of Israel. God greatly honored him, and, as we know, he became in later years the greatest, richest, and wisest king that had ever sat upon an earthly throne. Early in his reign Solomon was impressed by the Holy Spirit with the solemnity of his responsibilities, and, though rich in talents and ability, he realized that without divine aid he was helpless as a little child to perform them. Solomon was never so rich or so wise or so truly great as when he confessed to the Lord: “I am but a little child: I know not how to go out or come in.”....{Pr 141.3}[69]
§152
“所罗门因为求这事，就蒙主喜悦。上帝对他说：你既然求这事，不为自己求寿、求富，也不求灭绝你仇敌的性命，单求智慧可以听讼，我就应允你所求的，赐你聪明智慧，甚至在你以前没有象你的。在你以后也没有象你的；你所没有求的我也赐给你，就是富足、尊荣，使你在世的日子，列王中没有一个能比你的。”但这事也有条件的。“你若效法你父亲大卫，遵行我的道，谨守我的律例、诫命，我必使你长寿。”{Pr 141.4}[70]
§153
“And the speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this?thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; but hast asked for thyself understanding to discern judgment; behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart; so that there was none like thee before thee, neither after thee shall any arise like unto thee. And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honor: so that there shall not be any among the kings like unto thee all thy days.” Now the conditions: “And if thou wilt walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as thy father David did walk, then I will lengthen thy days.” ....?{Pr 141.4}[70]
§154
凡居要职的人，都需要从所罗门谦卑的祷告中学得教训。他们应时常记着职位决不能改变人的品格，也不能使人毫无失误。人所处的地位愈高，所负的责任愈重，所生的影响也就愈广，他也感觉自己愈需要依靠上帝的能力和智慧，来培养最优良和最圣洁的品格。 (9T.281, 282).{Pr 142.1}[71]
§155
All who occupy responsible positions need to learn the lesson that is taught in Solomon’s humble prayer. They are ever to remember that position will never change the character or render man infallible. The higher the position a man occupies, the greater the responsibility he has to bear, the wider will be the influence he exerts and the greater his need to feel his dependence on the wisdom and strength of God and to cultivate the best and most holy character.—(Testimonies for the Church 9:281, 282).{Pr 142.1}[71]
§156
所罗门的事例是需要时时警醒的教训——所罗门生性勇敢坚定，可是在试探的权势下，竟象风中的芦苇一样摇动，这说明他的品格是多么软弱和摇摆不定！苍劲古老的黎巴嫩雪松和巴珊结实的橡树，在试探的风暴前是不会屈服的！所以凡要救自己灵魂的人，要时时警醒，常常祷告！要把基督的恩典时常存在心中，与内在的腐败和外面的试探作斗争! (21MR.383.){Pr 142.2}[72]
§157
Solomon’s Example a Lesson to Watch Unto Prayer—How, in Solomon’s case, was weak, vacillating character—naturally bold, firm, and determined—shaken like a reed in the wind under the tempter’s power! How has an old, gnarled cedar of Lebanon, a sturdy oak of Bashan, bent before the blast of temptation! What a lesson for all who desire to save their souls to watch unto prayer continually. What a warning to keep the grace of Christ ever in their heart, to battle with inward corruptions and outward temptations.—(Manuscript Releases 21:383.){Pr 142.2}[72]
§158
【希西家】
§159
希西家为以色列的余民祷告——王告诉他说：“今日是急难、责罚、凌辱的日子；……或者耶和华你的上帝听见拉伯沙基的一切话，就是他主人亚述王打发他来辱骂永生上帝的话；耶和华你的上帝听见这话，就发斥责；故此，求你为余剩的民扬声祷告”（王下19:3,4）。.{Pr 142.3}[73]
§160
【Hezekiah】
§161
Hezekiah Prayed for the Remnant of Israel—“This day is a day of trouble, and of rebuke, and blasphemy,” was the word the king sent. “It may be the Lord thy God will hear all the words of?Rabshakeh, whom the king of Assyria his master hath sent to reproach the living God; and will reprove the words which the Lord thy God hath heard: wherefore lift up thy prayer for the remnant that are left.”?Verses 3, 4.{Pr 142.3}[73]
§162
“希西家王和亚摩斯的儿子先知以赛亚因此祷告，向天呼求。”（代下32:20）{Pr 143.1}[74]
§163
“For this cause Hezekiah the king, and the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz, prayed and cried to Heaven.”?2 Chronicles 32:20.{Pr 143.1}[74]
§164
上帝应允了祂仆人们的祈祷。祂藉着以赛亚传信给希西家说：“耶和华如此说：你听见亚述王的仆人亵渎我的话，不要惧怕。我必惊动他的心；他要听见风声，就归回本地；我必使他在那里倒在刀下”（王下19:6,7）。（PK 354）{Pr 143.2}[75]
§165
God answered the prayers of His servants. To Isaiah was given the message for Hezekiah: “Thus saith the Lord, Be not afraid of the words which thou hast heard, with which the servants of the king of Assyria have blasphemed Me. Behold, I will send a blast upon him, and he shall hear a rumor, and shall return to his own land; and I will cause him to fall by the sword in his own land.”?2 Kings 19:6, 7.—(Prophets and Kings, 354.){Pr 143.2}[75]
§166
希西家的祷告符合上帝的旨意——犹大王接到这讥刺的书信，便把它带进圣殿，“将书信在耶和华面前展开”（王下19:14），并以坚强的信心祈求上天的帮助，使地上的列国都能知道希伯来人的上帝还是活着，仍然掌权。这事关系到耶和华的荣誉；惟有祂能拯救。{Pr 143.3}[76]
§167
Hezekiah’s Prayer Was in Harmony With the Mind of God—When the king of Judah received the taunting letter, he took it into the temple and “spread it before the Lord” and prayed with strong faith for help from heaven, that the nations of earth might know that the God of the Hebrews still lived and reigned.?Verse 14. The honor of Jehovah was at stake; He alone could bring deliverance.{Pr 143.3}[76]
§168
希西家恳求说：“坐在二基路伯上耶和华以色列的上帝啊，祢是天下万国的上帝；祢曾创造天地。耶和华啊，求祢侧耳而听；耶和华啊，求祢睁眼而看；要听西拿基立打发使者来辱骂永生上帝的话。耶和华啊，亚述诸王果然使列国和列国之地变为荒凉，将各国的神像都扔在火里；因为他本不是神，乃是人手所造的，是木头石头的；所以灭绝他。耶和华我们的上帝啊，现在求祢救我们脱离亚述王的手，使天下万国都知道惟独祢耶和华是上帝”（王下19:15-19）。……{Pr 143.4}[77]
§169
“O Lord God of Israel, which dwellest between the cherubims,” Hezekiah pleaded, “Thou art the God, even Thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; Thou hast made heaven and earth. Lord, bow down Thine ear, and hear: open, Lord, Thine eyes, and see: and hear the words of Sennacherib, which hath sent him to reproach the living God. Of a truth, Lord, the kings of Assyria have destroyed the nations and their lands, and have cast their gods into the fire: for they were no gods, but the work of men’s hands, wood and stone: therefore they have destroyed them. Now therefore, O Lord our God, I beseech Thee, save Thou us out of his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that Thou art the Lord God, even Thou only.”?2 Kings 19:15-19....{Pr 143.4}[77]
§170
希西家为犹大并为他们至高统治者的荣誉所献的祈祷，是合乎上帝旨意的。所罗门王曾在奉献圣殿时祈求耶和华“每日为祂仆人与祂民以色列伸冤；使地上的万民都知道惟独耶和华是上帝，并无别神”（王上8:59,60）。他特别要求耶和华在战争或被仇敌压迫、而以色列的首长们进入祈祷的殿中求救时施恩（见王上8:33,34）。?{Pr 143.5}[78]
§171
Hezekiah’s pleadings in behalf of Judah and of the honor of their Supreme Ruler were in harmony with the mind of God. Solomon, in his benediction at the dedication of the temple, had prayed the Lord?to maintain “the cause of His people Israel at all times, as the matter shall require: that all the people of the earth may know that the Lord is God, and that there is none else.”?1 Kings 8:59, 60. Especially was the Lord to show favor when, in times of war or of oppression by an army, the chief men of Israel should enter the house of prayer and plead for deliverance.?Verses 33, 34.?{Pr 143.5}[78]
§172
上帝并没有让希西家陷于绝望。以赛亚通知他说：“耶和华以色列的上帝如此说：你既然求我攻击亚述王西拿基立，我已听见了。”(PK. 355, 356, 359.){Pr 144.1}[79]
§173
Hezekiah was not left without hope. Isaiah sent to him, saying, “Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, That which thou hast prayed to Me against Sennacherib king of Assyria I have heard.—(Prophets and Kings, 355, 356, 359.){Pr 144.1}[79]
§174
希西家的祈祷蒙应允，他获得医治——自从大卫的日子以来，没有哪一个王像希西家一样在背道与灰心的环境中大力推进上帝的国。这个垂死的君王曾经忠心地侍奉他的上帝，并已加强百姓对于他们至高统治者耶和华的信心。所以他现在能象大卫一样恳求：“愿我的祷告达到祢面前；求祢侧耳听我的呼求；因为我心里满了患难，我的性命临近阴间”（诗88:2-3）。“主耶和华啊，祢是我所盼望的；从我年幼祢是我所倚靠的。我从出母胎被祢扶持。”“我力气衰弱的时候，求祢不要离弃我。”“上帝啊，求祢不要远离我；我的上帝啊，求祢速速帮助我。”“上帝啊，……求祢不要离弃我；等我将祢的能力指示下代，将祢的大能指示后世的人”（诗71:5,6,9,12,18）。{Pr 144.2}[80]
§175
Hezekiah Healed in Answer to Prayer—Since the days of David, there had reigned no king who had wrought so mightily for the upbuilding of the kingdom of God in a time of apostasy and discouragement as had Hezekiah. The dying ruler had served his God faithfully, and had done much to strengthen the confidence of the people in Jehovah as their Supreme Ruler. And, like David, he could now plead: “Let my prayer come before thee: incline thine ear unto my cry; for my soul is full of troubles: and my life draweth nigh unto the grave.” “Thou art my hope, O Lord God: thou art my trust from my youth. By thee have I been holden up.... Forsake me not when my strength faileth.... O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help.... O God, forsake me not; until I have showed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.”?Psalm 88:2, 3;?Psalm 71:5-18.{Pr 144.2}[80]
§176
那位“怜悯不致断绝”的上帝垂听了祂仆人的祈祷（哀3:22）。“以赛亚出来，还没有到中院，耶和华的话就临到他，说：“你回去，告诉我民的君希西家，说：你祖大卫的上帝，如此说：我听见了你的祷告，看见了你的眼泪；我必医治你；到第三日，你必上到耶和华的殿。我必加增你十五年的寿数；并且我要救你和这城脱离亚述王的手；我为自己和我仆人大卫的缘故，必保护这城”（王下20:4-6）。 (RH.1915.5.6){Pr 144.3}[81]
§177
He whose “compassions fail not” (Lamentations 3:22) heard the prayer of His servant. “It came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the Lord came to him, saying, Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the Lord, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the Lord. And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David’s sake.”?2 Kings 20:4-6.—(The Review and Herald, May 6, 1915.){Pr 144.3}[81]
§178
【但以理】
§179
但以理的祷告有效而热情——但以理向上帝祷告，不求高抬自己，也不自称有任何良善：“求主垂听，求主赦免，求主应允而行，为祢自己不要迟延”（但9:19）。这就是雅各所说大有功效的恳切祷告。圣经论到基督说：“耶稣极其伤痛，祷告更加恳切”（路22:44）。天上至尊者的这种恳求，与那献给上帝的微弱无心的祷告，是何等的对比啊。许多人满足于口头上的服务，只有少数人有真诚，恳切，爱慕上帝的心意。（4T 534）{Pr 145.1}[82]
§180
【Daniel】
§181
Daniel’s Prayer Effectual and Fervent—Daniel prayed to God, not exalting himself or claiming any goodness: “O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not, for Thine own sake, O my God.” This is what James calls the effectual, fervent prayer. Of Christ it is said: “And being in an agony He prayed more earnestly.” In what contrast to this intercession by the Majesty of heaven are the feeble, heartless prayers that are offered to God. Many are content with lip service, and but few have a sincere, earnest, affectionate longing after God.—(Testimonies for the Church 4:534.){Pr 145.1}[82]
§182
但以理不顾逼迫，仍忠心祈祷——但以理有没有因为这道法令就要生效而停止祈祷呢？——没有！那正是他需要祈祷的时候。“但以理知道这禁令盖了玉玺，就到自己家里（他楼上的窗户开向耶路撒冷），一日三次，双膝跪在他上帝面前，祷告感谢，与素常一样”（但6:10）。但以理并不设法隐瞒他对上帝的忠诚。他不是在心里默祷，而是扬声祷告，他的窗户开向耶路撒冷，他向上天献上自己的请求。于是他的敌人们就向王抱怨，但以理便被丢进狮子坑里。然而上帝的儿子却在那里。主的使者在主仆人的四围扎营，及至王清早来呼叫说：“永生上帝的仆人但以理啊，你所常事奉的上帝能救你脱离狮子吗？但以理对王说：愿王万岁！我的上帝差遣使者，封住狮子的口，叫狮子不伤我”（但6:20-22）。他毫发无损，并且使耶和华天上的上帝显为尊大。(RH. 1892.5.3){Pr 145.2}[83]
§183
Daniel Remained Faithful in Prayer in Spite of Persecution—Did Daniel cease to pray because this decree was to go into force!—No, that was just the time when he needed to pray. “When Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and, his window being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.” Daniel did not seek to hide his loyalty to God. He did not pray in his heart, but with his voice, aloud, with his window open toward Jerusalem, he offered up his petition to heaven. Then his enemies made their complaint to the king, and Daniel was thrown into the den of lions. But the Son of God was there. The angel of the Lord encamped round about the servant of the Lord, and when the king came in the morning, and called, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions? Then said Daniel unto the king, O king, live forever. My God hath sent His angel, and hath shut the lions’ mouths, that they have not hurt me.” No harm had come to him, and he magnified the Lord God of heaven.—(The Review and Herald, May 3, 1892.){Pr 145.2}[83]
§184
但以理的祷告真诚而热烈——七十年被掳的时期将要结束，但以理就专心关注耶利米的预言。他见时候将到，上帝要再给祂的选民一次考验，就禁食、自卑、祷告，用以下的话为以色列民向天上的上帝恳求：“主啊，大而可畏的上帝，向爱主守主诫命的人，守约施慈爱。我们犯罪作孽，行恶叛逆，偏离祢的诫命典章。没有听从祢仆人众先知奉祢名向我们君王首领、列祖、和国中一切百姓所说的”（但9:4-6）。?{Pr 145.3}[84]
§185
Earnestness and Fervor Characterized Daniel’s Prayers—As the time approached for the close of the seventy years’ captivity, Daniel’s?mind became greatly exercised upon the prophecies of Jeremiah. He saw that the time was at hand when God would give His chosen people another trial; and with fasting, humiliation, and prayer, he importuned the God of heaven in behalf of Israel, in these words: “O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments; we have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments; neither have we hearkened unto thy servants the prophets, which spake in thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land” (Daniel 9:4-6).?{Pr 145.3}[84]
§186
但以理并没有在主的面前宣扬自己的忠诚。这位蒙尊重的先知没有自称纯净圣洁，却谦卑地将自己与以色列真正的罪人同列。上帝赐给他的智慧，远远超越世上伟人的智慧，就象午间的太阳在天空照耀，远比最微弱的星光明亮。但请思考这位上天所非常尊重的人口中所发出的祈祷。他以深切的谦卑，眼中流泪，撕心裂肺，为自己和本国的百姓恳切地祈求。他将自己的心在上帝面前敞开，承认自己的不配，承认主的伟大和威严。{Pr 146.1}[85]
§187
Daniel does not proclaim his own fidelity before the Lord. Instead of claiming to be pure and holy, this honored prophet humbly identifies himself with the really sinful of Israel. The wisdom which God had imparted to him was as far superior to the wisdom of the great men of the world as the light of the sun shining in the heavens at noonday is brighter than the feeblest star. Yet ponder the prayer from the lips of this man so highly favored of Heaven. With deep humiliation, with tears and rending of heart, he pleads for himself and for his people. He lays his soul open before God, confessing his own unworthiness and acknowledging the Lord’s greatness and majesty.{Pr 146.1}[85]
§188
他的祈祷多么恳切和热诚啊！他伸出信心的手握住至高者永不落空的应许。他的心灵经过痛苦的挣扎，获得了祈祷已蒙垂听的凭据，确知胜利是属于他的。我们这班人如果象但以理那样祷告，象他那样挣扎，在上帝面前存谦卑的心，就能象他那样祈祷获得明显的应允。且听他怎样向天庭提出他的要求:{Pr 146.2}[86]
§189
What earnestness and fervor characterize his supplications! The hand of faith is reached upward to grasp the never-failing promises of the Most High. His soul is wrestling in agony. And he has the evidence that his prayer is heard. He knows that victory is his. If we as a people would pray as Daniel prayed, and wrestle as he wrestled, humbling our souls before God, we should realize as marked answers to our petitions as were granted to Daniel. Hear how he presses his case at the court of heaven:{Pr 146.2}[86]
§190
“我的上帝啊，求祢侧耳而听，睁眼而看，眷顾我们荒凉之地，和称为祢名下的城。我们在祢面前恳求，原不是因自己的义，乃因祢的大怜悯。求主垂听，求主赦免，求主应允而行，为祢自己不要迟延。我的上帝啊，因这城和这民都是称为祢名下的”（18，19节）。{Pr 146.3}[87]
§191
“O my God, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by thy name; for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousnesses, but for thy great mercies. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, hearken and do; defer not; for thine own sake, O my God: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name” (verses 18, 19).{Pr 146.3}[87]
§192
这位属上帝的人祈求上天赐福给他的同胞，并求更清楚地明白上帝的旨意。他一心牵挂以色列民，因为他们从最严格的意义上说并没有遵守上帝的律法。他承认他们的一切祸患都是因为违犯了那圣洁的律法。他说：“我们犯了罪，作了恶。……因我们的罪和我们列祖的罪孽，被四围的人羞辱”（15，16节）。犹太人已经丧失了他们作上帝选民独特圣洁的性质。“我们的上帝啊，现在求祢垂听仆人的祈祷恳求，为自己使脸光照祢荒凉的圣所”（17节）。但以理为上帝荒凉的圣所牵肠挂肚。他知道以色列惟有悔改自己违背上帝律法的罪，谦卑、忠诚和顺从，才能恢复它的兴旺。{Pr 147.1}[88]
§193
The man of God was praying for the blessing of Heaven upon his people and for a clearer knowledge of the divine will. The burden of his heart was for Israel, who were not, in the strictest sense, keeping the law of God. He acknowledges that all their misfortunes have come upon them in consequence of their transgressions of that holy law. He says, “We have sinned, we have done wickedly.... Because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and thy people are become a reproach to all that are about us” (verses 15, 16). The Jews had lost their peculiar, holy character as God’s chosen people. “Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate” (verse 17). Daniel’s heart turns with intense longing to the desolate sanctuary of God. He knows that its prosperity can be restored only as Israel shall repent of their transgressions of God’s law, and become humble, faithful, and obedient.{Pr 147.1}[88]
§194
正当但以理祈祷的时候，天使加百列从天庭飞下来，对他说，他的祈祷已蒙垂听。这位大能的天使曾受命赐给他聪明智慧，在他眼前开启将来各世纪的奥秘。但以理在诚心寻求认识和明白真理的时候，就这样得以与上天所特派的使者交流。{Pr 147.2}[89]
§195
As Daniel’s prayer is going forth, the angel Gabriel comes sweeping down from the heavenly courts to tell him that his petitions are heard and answered. This mighty angel has been commissioned to give him skill and understanding—to open before him the mysteries of future ages. Thus, while earnestly seeking to know and understand the truth, Daniel was brought into communion with Heaven’s delegated messenger.{Pr 147.2}[89]
§196
作为对但以理恳求的回答，他不仅领受了他和他同胞所非常需要的亮光和真理，还看到了将来的伟大事件，直到世界救赎主的降临。凡自称成圣，却不想研究圣经，或在祷告中与上帝角力，藉以更加明白圣经真理的人，都不知道真正成圣的意义。（SL. 46-49.){Pr 147.3}[90]
§197
In answer to his petition, Daniel received not only the light and truth which he and his people most needed, but a view of the great events of the future, even to the advent of the world’s Redeemer. Those who claim to be sanctified, while they have no desire to search the Scriptures or to wrestle with God in prayer for a clearer understanding of Bible truth, know not what true sanctification is.—(The Sanctified Life, 46-49.){Pr 147.3}[90]
§198
【尼希米】
§199
尼希米的祷告是今日上帝子民的榜样——倡导这个事业的人，心中必须充满耶稣的精神。唯有那位大医师才能敷用基列的乳香。让这些人以圣灵所感动的谦卑之心来阅读《尼希米记》吧。这样，他们的错误观念就会纠正，并认识到正确的原则，目前的局面也会改观。尼希米祈求上帝帮助，上帝听了他的祷告。主感动了外邦君王来帮助他。当他的仇敌积极活动反对他的时候，主藉着君王作工，实行祂的旨意，并应允上升到祂面前求助的许多祷告。这种帮助是他们所迫切需要的。 (RH.1911.3.23)?{Pr 147.4}[91]
§200
【Nehemiah】
§201
Nehemiah’s Prayer Is an Example to God’s People Today—The hearts of those who advocate this cause must be filled with the Spirit of Jesus. The Great Physician alone can apply the balm of?Gilead. Let these men read the book of Nehemiah with humble hearts touched by the Holy Spirit, and their false ideas will be modified, and correct principles will be seen, and the present order of things will be changed. Nehemiah prayed to God for help, and God heard his prayer. The Lord moved upon heathen kings to come to his help. When his enemies zealously worked against him, the Lord worked through kings to carry out His purpose, and to answer the many prayers which were ascending to Him for the help which they so much needed.—(The Review and Herald, March 23, 1911.)?{Pr 147.4}[91]
§202
祷告增强了尼希米的信心和勇气——这个希伯来的爱国志士听那些从犹大地回来的人说，蒙选之城耶路撒冷已经临到考验的日子。那些被掳归回的人正在遭大难，受凌辱。圣殿和圣城的一部分固然已经恢复，但复兴的工作受到阻碍，圣殿的崇祀常被搅扰，城内的居民提心吊胆，极不安定，因为城墙荒废破坏，尚未修复。{Pr 148.1}[92]
§203
Prayer Made Nehemiah’s Faith and Courage Stronger—By messengers from Judea the Hebrew patriot learned that days of trial had come to Jerusalem, the chosen city. The returned exiles were suffering affliction and reproach. The temple and portions of the city had been rebuilt; but the work of restoration was hindered, the temple services were disturbed, and the people kept in constant alarm by the fact that the walls of the city were still largely in ruins.{Pr 148.1}[92]
§204
尼希米听到这个消息悲愤万分，不能吃喝，他“就坐下哭泣，悲哀几日，在天上的上帝面前禁食祈祷。”他在苦痛中转向那位神圣的帮助者，诚心地承认了自己和百姓的罪，恳求上帝维护以色列的事业，鼓起他们的勇气，加强他们的力量，帮助他们修复犹大的荒废之处。{Pr 148.2}[93]
§205
Overwhelmed with sorrow, Nehemiah could neither eat nor drink; he “wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted.” In his grief he turned to the divine Helper. “I ... prayed,” he said, “before the God of heaven.” Faithfully he made confession of his sins and the sins of his people. He pleaded that God would maintain the cause of Israel, restore their courage and strength, and help them to build up the waste places of Judah.{Pr 148.2}[93]
§206
当尼希米祈祷的时候，他的信心和勇气就越发坚强了。他的口里充满了圣洁的论据。他指出，上帝的子民这时既然已经转向祂，如果被撇弃在软弱与欺压之下，上帝的名就必受到羞辱。所以他恳求上帝实现祂以下的应许：“你们若归向我，谨守遵行我的诫命，你们被赶散的人，虽在天涯，我也必从那里将他们招聚回来，带到我所选择立为我名的居所”（见申4:29-31）。在以色列人进入迦南之前，上帝就已藉着摩西将这个应许赐给他们。而且这时虽然已经过了好几个世纪，但这个应许依然是成立的。上帝的子民已经藉着悔改和信心重新归回了祂，所以祂的应许决不至落空。?{Pr 148.3}[94]
§207
As Nehemiah prayed, his faith and courage grew strong. His mouth was filled with holy arguments. He pointed to the dishonor that would be cast upon God, if His people, now that they had returned to Him, should be left in weakness and oppression; and he urged the Lord to bring to pass His promise: “If ye turn unto Me, and keep My Commandments, and do them; though there were of you cast out unto the uttermost part of the heaven, yet will I gather them from thence, and will bring them unto the place that I have chosen to set My name there.” See?Deuteronomy 4:29-31. This promise had been given to Israel through Moses?before they had entered Canaan, and during the centuries it had stood unchanged. God’s people had now returned to Him in penitence and faith, and His promise would not fail.?{Pr 148.3}[94]
§208
尼希米过去时常为他的同胞祈祷。但这次祈祷时，他心里产生了一个圣洁的志愿。如果国王许可并愿意帮助他得到他所需要的设备和物资，他便决心要亲自下手重新建造耶路撒冷的城墙与恢复以色列的力量。于是他求主使他在王面前蒙恩，以便实行他的计划。他祈求说：“求祢使祢仆人现今亨通，在王面前蒙恩。”{Pr 149.1}[95]
§209
Nehemiah had often poured out his soul in behalf of his people. But now as he prayed a holy purpose formed in his mind. He resolved that if he could obtain the consent of the king, and the necessary aid in procuring implements and material, he would himself undertake the task of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem and restoring Israel’s national strength. And he asked the Lord to grant him favor in the sight of the king, that this plan might be carried out. “Prosper, I pray Thee, Thy servant this day,” he entreated, “and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.”{Pr 149.1}[95]
§210
尼希米等了四个月，希望有良好的机会向波斯王提出要求。在此期间，虽然他心中悲伤沉重，但他依然尽量在王面前表现快乐的心情。在那奢华美丽的宫廷之中，人人都应该轻松愉快。凡是侍立在君王面前的人万不可有一点忧愁的表情。但当尼希米不在王前侍侯的时候，他既不为人所看见，上帝和天使就时常听到并看见他的祈祷、认罪和眼泪。（PK 628-630）{Pr 149.2}[96]
§211
Four months Nehemiah waited for a favorable opportunity to present his request to the king. During this time, though his heart was heavy with grief, he endeavored to bear himself with cheerfulness in the royal presence. In those halls of luxury and splendor all must appear light-hearted and happy. Distress must not cast its shadow over the countenance of any attendant of royalty. But in Nehemiah’s seasons of retirement, concealed from human sight, many were the prayers, the confessions, the tears, heard and witnessed by God and angels.—(Prophets and Kings, 628-630.){Pr 149.2}[96]
§212
尼希米在祷告中承认自己的罪——尼希米不仅说以色列人犯了罪，而且承认他与他的父家都有罪了。他说：“我们向祢所行的甚是邪恶。”他把自己列在那些藐视上帝、不为真理坚立的人中间。……{Pr 149.3}[97]
§213
Nehemiah Acknowledged His Personal Sin in His Prayers—Not only did Nehemiah say that Israel had sinned. He acknowledged with penitence that he and his father’s house had sinned. “We have dealt corruptly against Thee,” he says, placing himself among those who had dishonored God by not standing stiffly for the truth....{Pr 149.3}[97]
§214
尼希米在上帝面前谦卑，将荣耀归给祂。但以理在巴比伦时也是如此。唯愿我们学习这些人的祷告。他们教导我们应谦卑虚己，决不可除去在守上帝诫命的人与不尊重祂律法的人之间的界线。 (3BC.1136.){Pr 149.4}[98]
§215
Nehemiah humbled himself before God, giving Him the glory due unto His name. Thus also did Daniel in Babylon. Let us study the prayers of these men. They teach us that we are to humble ourselves, but that we are never to obliterate the line of demarcation between God’s commandment-keeping people and those who have no respect for His law.—(SDA Bible Commentary 3:1136.){Pr 149.4}[98]
§216
尼希米祷告，相信上帝会履行自己的应许——尼希米凭着信心紧紧地握住上帝的应许。他将自己的请求摆在天上施恩的脚凳前，要上帝维护祂悔改子民的事业，恢复他们的力量，重建他们的荒地。当上帝的子民与祂分离时，祂曾信实地履行自己警告，使他们分散在各国。尼希米据此确信祂同样会信实地履行自己的应许。(3BC.1136.) {Pr 150.1}[99]
§217
Nehemiah Prayed, Certain That God Would Fulfill His Promises—By faith taking fast hold of the divine promise, Nehemiah laid down at the footstool of heavenly mercy his petition that God would maintain the cause of His penitent people, restore their strength, and build up their waste places. God had been faithful to His threatenings when His people separated from Him; He had scattered them abroad among the nations, according to His Word. And Nehemiah found in this very fact an assurance that He would be equally faithful in fulfilling His promises.—(SDA Bible Commentary 3:1136.){Pr 150.1}[99]
§218
尼希米根据当时的需要献上祷告——尼希米如此论到耶路撒冷的状况，引起了王的同情，而没有激发他的偏见。他第二个问题正好是尼希米期待已久的机会：“你要求什么？”这个属上帝的人在没有答复这个问题之前，必须先请示那远在亚达薛西王之上的主。他有一个神圣的委托必须完成。在这一项工作上，他需要王的帮助。他认明：他能否得到王的恩准和资助，全赖乎他提出要求的方式如何。他说：“于是我默祷天上的上帝。”在那简短的祈祷中，尼希米居然进到万王之王面前，并得着那位能影响人心，如同改变河道之主的帮助。（PK 631）{Pr 150.2}[100]
§219
Nehemiah Shaped His Prayers to the Needs of the Moment—The recital of the condition of Jerusalem awakened the sympathy of the monarch without arousing his prejudices. Another question gave the opportunity for which Nehemiah had long waited: “For what dost thou make request?” But the man of God did not venture to reply till he had sought direction from One higher than Artaxerxes. He had a sacred trust to fulfill, in which he required help from the king; and he realized that much depended upon his presenting the matter in such a way as to win his approval and enlist his aid. “I prayed,” he said, “to the God of heaven.” In that brief prayer Nehemiah pressed into the presence of the King of kings and won to his side a power that can turn hearts as the rivers of waters are turned.—(Prophets and Kings, 631.){Pr 150.2}[100]
§220
尼希米的祷告有坚定的宗旨——今日的教会需要尼希米那样的人。他们不仅能祷告和讲道，而且带着坚定热忱的宗旨。 (ST.1883.12.6){Pr 150.3}[101]
§221
Nehemiah’s Prayers Were Braced With Firm Purpose—There is need of Nehemiahs in the church today,—not men who can pray and preach only, but men whose prayers and sermons are braced with firm and eager purpose.—(The Signs of the Times, December 6, 1883.){Pr 150.3}[101]
§222
我们和尼希米一样，可以在任何时间，任何地点祷告—每一个基督徒都能在他们无法采用其它祈祷达到方式时，效法尼希米在紧急需要时那样的祈祷。处在忙碌生活之中的工作者能在困难的境遇中随时随地要求上帝的引导。在海洋和陆地行程中的旅客，遇见危险时也能这样将自己交给上帝保护。在突然的困难或危险临身时，我们能从心里呼吁那位应许来帮助一切忠心靠祂之人的主。祂必要帮助他们。在一切的环境或情形之下，一个被忧伤和痛苦所压倒、试探所猛烈袭击的信徒，总能在一位守约的上帝永不止息的慈爱和能力中得到保证、支持和援助。?{Pr 150.4}[102]
§223
Like Nehemiah, We Can Pray at Any Time or Place—To pray as Nehemiah prayed in his hour of need is a resource at the command of the Christian under circumstances when other forms of?prayer may be impossible. Toilers in the busy walks of life, crowded and almost overwhelmed with perplexity, can send up a petition to God for divine guidance. Travelers by sea and land, when threatened with some great danger, can thus commit themselves to Heaven’s protection. In times of sudden difficulty or peril the heart may send up its cry for help to One who has pledged Himself to come to the aid of His faithful, believing ones whenever they call upon Him. In every circumstance, under every condition, the soul weighed down with grief and care, or fiercely assailed by temptation, may find assurance, support, and succor in the unfailing love and power of a covenant-keeping God.?{Pr 150.4}[102]
§224
尼希米既在祈求万王之王的片刻之间获得了勇气，便向亚达薛西陈明他的心愿，希望准他暂时放下宫廷的职务。他也要求获得权柄，以修建耶路撒冷荒废之处，使之重新成为一座防御巩固的城池。对于犹大国无比重要的结果都系于这个请求之上。尼希米说：“王就允准我，因我上帝施恩的手帮助我。”（PK. 631-633）{Pr 151.1}[103]
§225
Nehemiah, in that brief moment of prayer to the King of kings, gathered courage to tell Artaxerxes of his desire to be released for a time from his duties at the court, and he asked for authority to build up the waste places of Jerusalem and to make it once more a strong and defensed city. Momentous results to the Jewish nation hung upon this request. “And,” Nehemiah declares, “the king granted me, according to the good hand of my God upon me.”(Prophets and Kings, 631-633.){Pr 151.1}[103]
§226
上帝凭着祂的旨意不让我们从开始知道末后，而是赐给我们祂话语的亮光，指引我们一路走来，嘱咐我们要保守自己的心在耶稣身上。我们不论在什么地方，从事什么职业，都要在祷告中倾心于上帝。这就是随时的祷告。我们不必等到可以跪下才祷告。有一次尼希米来到王面前。王问他你为什么脸带愁容，有什么要求呢？尼希米不敢立刻回答，因为事关重大。一个民族的命运悬于给国王的心中所留下的印象。尼希米在回答国王之先，立即向天上的上帝祷告，结果他得到了他所求所愿的一切。(ST.1887.10.20) {Pr 151.2}[104]
§227
God in His providence does not permit us to know the end from the beginning; but He gives us the light of His word to guide us as we pass along, and bids us to keep our minds stayed upon Jesus. Wherever we are, whatever our employment, our hearts are to be uplifted to God in prayer. This is being instant in prayer. We need not wait until we can bow upon our knees before we pray. On one occasion, when Nehemiah came in before the king, the king asked why he looked so sad, and what request he had to make. But Nehemiah dared not answer at once. Important interests were at stake. The fate of a nation hung upon the impression that should then be made upon the monarch’s mind; and Nehemiah darted up a prayer to the God of Heaven, before he dared to answer the king. The result was that he obtained all that he asked or even desired.—(The Signs of the Times, October 20, 1887.){Pr 151.2}[104]
§228
没有什么时间或地点不适于我们向上帝献上祷告的，也没有什么事物能阻碍我们以虔诚的祷告精神向主倾吐自己的心意。在人群拥挤的街道上，在繁忙的业务中，我们仍可以向上帝祈求，恳求祂的引导，如同尼希米在亚达薛西王面前请求时所作的那样。我们到处可以找到与上帝交通的密室。我们要时常敞开心门，恳求耶稣作为天上的贵宾来住在我们心中。{Pr 152.1}[105]
§229
There is no time or place in which it is inappropriate to offer up a petition to God. There is nothing that can prevent us from lifting up our hearts in the spirit of earnest prayer. In the crowds of the street, in the midst of a business engagement, we may send up a petition to God and plead for divine guidance, as did Nehemiah when he made his request before King Artaxerxes. A closet of communion may be found wherever we are. We should have the door of the heart open continually and our invitation going up that Jesus may come and abide as a heavenly guest in the soul.{Pr 152.1}[105]
§230
虽然我们的周围是污浊腐败的空气，但我们不必呼吸这种浊气，却可以生活在天国清新的空气之中。我们藉着虔诚的祷告把自己的心提到上帝面前，就能杜绝污秽意念和不洁思想的一切门路。凡敞开心门接受上帝扶助和福分的人，必行在比这地上更圣洁的气氛中，不断与上天交通。（SC 99）{Pr 152.2}[106]
§231
Although there may be a tainted, corrupted atmosphere around us, we need not breathe its miasma, but may live in the pure air of heaven. We may close every door to impure imaginings and unholy thoughts by lifting the soul into the presence of God through sincere prayer. Those whose hearts are open to receive the support and blessing of God will walk in a holier atmosphere than that of earth and will have constant communion with heaven.—(Steps to Christ, 99).{Pr 152.2}[106]
§232
尼希米整夜恳切地祷告——尼希米悄无声息地完成了巡视城墙的工作。他说，“我往哪里去，我作什么工事，官长都不知道；我还没有告诉犹大平民、祭司、贵胄、官长，和其余作工的人”（尼2:16）。在这场艰难的巡视中，他不愿引起朋友或敌人的注意，免得引起骚动，产生谣言，挫败或至少阻碍他的工作。尼希米用当夜其余的时间祷告。到了早晨，他必须认真努力鼓舞和凝聚起他沮丧涣散的同胞。(ChS .174){Pr 152.3}[107]
§233
Nehemiah Prayed Earnestly All Night—In secrecy and silence, Nehemiah completed his circuit of the walls. He declares, “The rulers knew not whither I went, or what I did; neither had I as yet told it to the Jews, nor to the priests, nor to the nobles, nor to the rulers, nor to the rest that did the work.” In this painful survey he did not wish to attract the attention of either friends or foes, lest an excitement should be created, and reports be put in circulation that might defeat, or at least hinder, his work. Nehemiah devoted the remainder of the night to prayer; in the morning there must be earnest effort to arouse and unite his dispirited and divided countrymen.—(Christian Service, 174.){Pr 152.3}[107]
§234
尼希米的成功显示祷告的能力——以斯拉和尼希米在从事他们的工作时，常在上帝面前自卑，承认自己和百姓的罪，并恳求赦免，如同他们自己是犯了这些罪一样。他们耐心作工，祈祷并受苦。那使他们的工作最为艰难的，还不是异教徒公开的敌对，而是一些伪善者暗地的破坏。这一等人竟将自己的影响力投在邪恶的一方面，如此使上帝仆人的负担加重十倍。这些卖主卖友的人竟把材料供给上帝的敌人，帮助他们打击上帝的子民。他们邪恶的情感与叛逆的心地，向来是与上帝明显的要求相违的。{Pr 152.4}[108]
§235
Nehemiah’s Success Shows the Power of Prayer—In their work, Ezra and Nehemiah humbled themselves before God, confessing their sins and the sins of their people, and entreating pardon as if they themselves were the offenders. Patiently they toiled and prayed and suffered. That which made their work most difficult was not the open hostility of the heathen, but the secret opposition?of pretended friends, who, by lending their influence to the service of evil, increased tenfold the burden of God’s servants. These traitors furnished the Lord’s enemies with material to use in their warfare upon His people. Their evil passions and rebellious wills were ever at war with the plain requirements of God.?{Pr 152.4}[108]
§236
尼希米努力的成功足以说明祈祷、信心和聪明有力的行动所能成就的事。尼希米不是祭司，也不是先知。他没有为自己求得尊贵的衔头。他乃是上帝为一个重要时机所兴起的改革家。他的宗旨乃是要使他的同胞与上帝建立正常的关系。他既为崇高的志向所鼓舞，就使用全身的力量来成就他的目的。他一切的努力都体现了浩大的正气。每当他遇到邪恶或反对正义的事时，他的立场是非常坚定的，甚至众人都因而振奋，并以新的热忱和勇气从事圣工。他们不能不看出他有一颗忠诚勇敢，热爱祖国，并深切敬爱上帝的心。他们既看出这一点，就乐意接受他的领导了。（PK 675，676）{Pr 153.1}[109]
§237
The success attending Nehemiah’s efforts shows what prayer, faith, and wise, energetic action will accomplish. Nehemiah was not a priest; he was not a prophet; he made no pretension to high title. He was a reformer raised up for an important time. It was his aim to set his people right with God. Inspired with a great purpose, he bent every energy of his being to its accomplishment. High, unbending integrity marked his efforts. As he came into contact with evil and opposition to right he took so determined a stand that the people were roused to labor with fresh zeal and courage. They could not but recognize his loyalty, his patriotism, and his deep love for God; and, seeing this, they were willing to follow where he led.—(Prophets and Kings, 675, 676.){Pr 153.1}[109]
§238
【施洗约翰】
§239
约翰化时间默想和祈祷，了解上帝对他人生的旨意——约翰的生活并没有消磨在安逸，苦修，消沉或自私的孤立之中。他时时出去与人来往，并且经常留意世上的动态。从他那幽居的地方，他细察时事的发展。他凭圣灵的启迪研究世人的品性，以便明白怎样将天上的信息送到他们的心中。他常将自己的使命放在心上。他独居一处，藉着默想和祈祷，为前面一生的工作努力武装自己的心灵。（DA 102）{Pr 153.2}[110]
§240
【John The Baptist】
§241
John Spent Time in Meditation and Prayer to Know God’s Will for His Life—The life of John was not spent in idleness, in ascetic gloom, or in selfish isolation. From time to time he went forth to mingle with men; and he was ever an interested observer of what was passing in the world. From his quiet retreat he watched the unfolding of events. With vision illuminated by the divine Spirit he studied the characters of men, that he might understand how to reach their hearts with the message of heaven. The burden of his mission was upon him. In solitude, by meditation and prayer, he sought to gird up his soul for the lifework before him.—(The Desire of Ages, 102.){Pr 153.2}[110]
§242
祈祷使约翰有力量面对地上的君王——施洗约翰在旷野的生活中，蒙受上帝的指教。他在自然界中研究上帝的启示。他在圣灵的引导之下，查考先知的书卷。昼夜研究基督，思念祂，直到祂的脑与心与灵，都充满了那荣耀的异象。{Pr 153.3}[111]
§243
Prayer Empowered John to Face the Kings of Earth—John the Baptist in his desert life was taught of God. He studied the revelations of God in nature. Under the guiding of the Divine?Spirit, he studied the scrolls of the prophets. By day and by night, Christ was his study, his meditation, until mind and heart and soul were filled with the glorious vision.?{Pr 153.3}[111]
§244
他既见了“王的荣美”，就忘掉自己。他见了圣洁的威仪，就觉得自己是无能的，不配的。这样，他就可以出去作天上的使者，不为人的威武所屈，因为他已经看见了上帝的尊严。他能毫无畏惧地屹立在世上的君王面前，因为他已在万王之王脚前俯伏跪拜了。（8T 331, 332.){Pr 154.1}[112]
§245
He looked upon the King in His beauty, and self was lost sight of. He beheld the majesty of holiness and knew himself to be inefficient and unworthy. It was God’s message that he was to declare. It was in God’s power and His righteousness that he was to stand. He was ready to go forth as Heaven’s messenger, unawed by the human, because he had looked upon the Divine. He could stand fearless in the presence of earthly monarchs because with trembling he had bowed before the King of kings.—(Testimonies for the Church 8:331, 332.){Pr 154.1}[112]
§246
上帝应允彼得的祷告，让多加复活——使徒彼得看见他们的悲伤，甚感同情。于是他便叫那些哀哭的友人离开那房间，自己跪下热切地祈求上帝使多加再得生命和健康。随后他转身向那遗体说：“大比大，起来！她就睁开眼睛，见了彼得，便坐起来”（徒9:40）。多加过去对于教会大有贡献，所以上帝的美意使她从“仇敌的境地”归来，以便她的手艺和活力能再为他人造福，同时也要因上帝这一次大能的表显而加强基督的事业。（AA 132）{Pr 154.2}[113]
§247
【Peter】
§248
God Answered Peter’s Prayer to Raise Dorcas to Life—The apostle’s heart was touched with sympathy as he beheld their sorrow. Then, directing that the weeping friends be sent from the room, he kneeled down and prayed fervently to God to restore Dorcas to life and health. Turning to the body, he said, “Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.” Dorcas had been of great service to the church, and God saw fit to bring her back from the land of the enemy, that her skill and energy might still be a blessing to others, and also that by this manifestation of His power the cause of Christ might be strengthened.—(The Acts of the Apostles, 132.){Pr 154.2}[113]