第16章 私祷
§1
第16章 私祷
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Chap. 16—Private Prayer
§3
私祷十分重要——心智若不特别操练祷告，心灵就不可能兴盛。只有家庭祷告和公众祷告是不够的。私下的祷告是很重要的。我们要在幽静之处，向鉴察一切的上帝敞开心怀，每一个动机都受到细察。要私下祷告！这是多么宝贵啊！心灵与上帝交通！密室里的祷告只有听祷告的上帝听见。没有好奇的耳朵听到你这种恳求的内容。在私下的祷告中，心灵可以摆脱环境的影响和刺激，安静而热切地达到上帝面前。私下的祷告常因大声祷告遭到滥用，失去其甜美的宗旨。心灵非但不能宁静安详地倚靠信赖上帝，反倒陷入卑贱的状况，嗓音提高了，情绪兴奋激动，私下的祷告就失去了它使人柔和庄重的影响力。人既情感激奋、口若悬河，便不可能觉察那向心灵说话的安静微小的声音，就是心灵在私下真实衷心的祷告中所能听见的。那在暗中查看、其耳垂听内心的祈祷的上帝会发出甜蜜而持久的感化力。借着宁静、单纯的信心，心灵保持与上帝交通，从上帝那里收集神圣的亮光，加强并支持它忍受撒但的攻击。上帝是我们力量的高台。（2T.189, 190.)?{Pr 178.1}[1]
§4
Private Prayer Is Essential—It is impossible for the soul to flourish while prayer is not a special exercise of the mind. Family or public prayer alone is not sufficient. Secret prayer is very important; in solitude the soul is laid bare to the inspecting eye of God, and every motive is scrutinized. Secret prayer! How precious! The soul communing with God! Secret prayer is to be heard only by the prayer-hearing God. No curious ear is to receive the burden of such petitions. In secret prayer the soul is free from surrounding influences, free from excitement. Calmly, yet fervently, will it reach out after God. Secret prayer is frequently perverted, and its sweet designs lost, by loud vocal prayer. Instead of the calm, quiet trust and faith in God, the soul drawn out in low, humble tones, the voice is raised to a loud pitch, and excitement is encouraged, and secret prayer loses its softening, sacred influence. There is a storm of feeling, a storm of words, making it impossible to discern the still, small voice that speaks to the soul while engaged in its secret, true, heartfelt devotion. Secret prayer, properly carried out, is productive of great good. But prayer which is made public to the entire family and neighborhood is not secret prayer, even though thought to be, and divine strength is not received from?it. Sweet and abiding will be the influence emanating from Him who seeth in secret, whose ear is open to answer the prayer arising from the heart. By calm, simple faith the soul holds communion with God and gathers to itself divine rays of light to strengthen and sustain it to endure the conflicts of Satan. God is our tower of strength.—(Testimonies for the Church 2:189, 190.)?{Pr 178.1}[1]
§5
为崇拜上帝而做的私下祷告，家庭祷告和公众集会祷告——都是必不可少的。而且我们要按祷告去生活。我们当在基督的工作上与祂合作。（7T 239){Pr 179.1}[2]
§6
Private prayer, family prayer, prayer in public gatherings for the worship of God—all are essential. And we are to live our prayers. We are to co-operate with Christ in His work.—(Testimonies for the Church 7:239.){Pr 179.1}[2]
§7
大家都需要不断警醒祷告——这种罪恶的开始，先由于忽略警醒及私祷，继而忽略其他的信仰方面的义务，终至于大门洞开，万恶涌入了。每个基督徒必要受世界的诱惑，肉欲本性的骚扰，及撒但的直接试探所攻击。没有一人是安全的。不论我们已有了何种的经验，不论我们的地位多高，总是需要不住地警醒及祈祷。我们必须日日受上帝之灵的约束，否则就要受撒但的控制。（5T 102){Pr 179.2}[3]
§8
All Need to Watch and Pray continually—The very beginning of the evil was a neglect of watchfulness and secret prayer, then came a neglect of other religious duties, and thus the way was opened for all the sins that followed. Every Christian will be assailed by the allurements of the world, the clamors of the carnal nature, and the direct temptations of Satan. No one is safe. No matter what our experience has been, no matter how high our station, we need to watch and pray continually. We must be daily controlled by the Spirit of God or we are controlled by Satan.—(Testimonies for the Church 5:102.){Pr 179.2}[3]
§9
时时祷告——你们独处的时候，走路的时候，或日常工作忙碌的时候，都要养成与救主谈话的习惯。你们的心要在无声的恳求中不断提升，祈求帮助，亮光，力量和知识。要让每一次呼吸都成为祈祷。（Te 135）{Pr 179.3}[4]
§10
Pray at All Times—Cultivate the habit of talking with the Saviour when you are alone, when you are walking, and when you are busy with your daily labor. Let the heart be continually uplifted in silent petition for help, for light, for strength, for knowledge. Let every breath be a prayer.—(Temperance, 135.){Pr 179.3}[4]
§11
通向上帝宝座的道路始终是开放的。你虽不能一直屈膝祷告，但你默默的恳求可以不断升到上帝面前，为要得力量和指导。你必定会受到试探，那时你可以逃到至高者的隐秘处。祂永远的膀臂必托住你。—(CH 362.){Pr 179.4}[5]
§12
The way to the throne of God is always open. You cannot always be on your knees in prayer, but your silent petitions may constantly ascend to God for strength and guidance. When tempted, as you will be, you may flee to the secret place of the Most High. His everlasting arms will be underneath you.—(Counsels on Health, 362.){Pr 179.4}[5]
§13
私下的祷告适合于任何时间、任何地点——你要在密室里祷告。但你在日常工作时也要向上帝倾心吐意。{Pr 180.1}[6]
§14
Secret Prayer Is Appropriate Anywhere, Anytime—Pray in your closet, and as you go about your daily labor let your heart be often uplifted to God.{Pr 180.1}[6]
§15
以诺就是这样与上帝同行的。这种默默的祷告，犹如贵重的馨香，上升到施恩座前。凡如此与上帝保持交通的人，是不可能被撒但所胜的。{Pr 180.2}[7]
§16
It was thus that Enoch walked with God. These silent prayers rise like precious incense before the throne of grace. Satan cannot overcome him whose heart is thus stayed upon God.{Pr 180.2}[7]
§17
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。（SC 98，99）{Pr 180.3}[8]
§18
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.—(Steps to Christ, 98, 99).{Pr 180.3}[8]
§19
祷告把我们带到上帝面前——祈祷无论是在公众聚会中，在家庭祭坛旁，还是在密室里，都使人直接来到上帝面前。藉着恒切的祷告，青年人能坚守原则，甚至最强烈的试探也不能引诱他们放弃对上帝的忠诚。（ML 18.){Pr 180.4}[9]
§20
Prayer Brings Us Into the Presence of God Himself—Prayer, whether offered in the public assembly, at the family altar, or in secret, places man directly in the presence of God. By constant prayer the youth may obtain principles so firm that the most powerful temptations will not draw them from their allegiance to God.—(My Life Today, 18.){Pr 180.4}[9]
§21
祷告使我们保持与基督的联系——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 180.5}[10]
§22
Prayer Keeps Us Connected With Christ—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 180.5}[10]
§23
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。” (EW 73.){Pr 180.6}[11]
§24
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.”(Early Writings, 73.){Pr 180.6}[11]
§25
私祷维持属灵的生命——这样靠上帝的话而活，就是将全部的生命都交给祂。要时常感觉需要和依赖祂，向祂倾心吐意。祈祷是不可或缺的；因为它是心灵的生命。家庭祈祷与公众祈祷各有其地位；但惟有与上帝进行私下的交流，才能维持心灵的生命。（Ed 258)?{Pr 180.7}[12]
§26
Private Prayer Sustains the Soul—To live thus by the word of God means the surrender to Him of the whole life. There will be?felt a continual sense of need and dependence, a drawing out of the heart after God. Prayer is a necessity; for it is the life of the soul. Family prayer, public prayer, have their place; but it is secret communion with God that sustains the soul life.—(Education, 258.)?{Pr 180.7}[12]
§27
需要私祷是因为个人要认识上帝——我们是否对上帝有了应有的认识？如果我们天天学习祂要我们学的教训，该有多大的安慰和喜乐啊！我们必须通过个人经验去认识祂。多花时间个人祷告亲自与我们的天父交往，这对我们是大有好处的。 (MM. 102.){Pr 181.1}[13]
§28
Private Prayer Is Needed in Order to Become Personally Acquainted With God—Oh, do we know God as we should? What comfort, what joy, we should have if we were to learn daily the lessons He desires us to learn! We must know Him by an experimental knowledge. It will be profitable for us to spend more time in secret prayer, in becoming personally acquainted with our heavenly Father.—(Medical Ministry, 102.){Pr 181.1}[13]
§29
上帝的子民忽略私祷——我常蒙指示，得悉主的儿女们太疏忽祈祷，特别是私下的祈祷，以致许多人没有照着他们所赋有的权利及义务去运用信心，而经常等待那惟有信心才能带来的感觉。感觉不是信心；这完全是两回事。 (EW 72){Pr 181.2}[14]
§30
God’s People Neglect Secret Prayer—I have frequently seen that the children of the Lord neglect prayer, especially secret prayer, altogether too much; that many do not exercise that faith which it is their privilege and duty to exercise, often waiting for that feeling which faith alone can bring. Feeling is not faith; the two are distinct.—(Early Writings, 72.){Pr 181.2}[14]
§31
我们的创造主要求我们对祂至为虔诚和最为忠诚。凡减损我们对上帝的爱，或妨碍我们侍奉祂的事物，均成偶像。有人以自己的田地、房屋、财产为偶像。他们热心拓展自己的事业，却把侍奉上帝放在次要的地位。他们忽略了家庭礼拜，忘记了私下的祷告。（2BC. 1011, 1012.){Pr 181.3}[15]
§32
Our Creator demands our supreme devotion, our first allegiance. Anything which tends to abate our love for God, or to interfere with the service due Him, becomes thereby an idol. With some their lands, their houses, their merchandise, are the idols. Business enterprises are prosecuted with zeal and energy, while the service of God is made a secondary consideration. Family worship is neglected, secret prayer is forgotten.—(SDA Bible Commentary 2:1011, 1012.){Pr 181.3}[15]
§33
忽略祷告会越发轻易——要注意不可忽略私下的祈祷和读经。这些是你的抵挡撒但的武器。他竭力要妨碍你走天路。人既初次忽略祈祷和读经，下一次就更加容易了。第一次抗拒圣灵的恳劝，就为第二次抗拒预备了道路。人心就这样变得刚硬，良心也就麻木了。（MYP 96)?{Pr 181.4}[16]
§34
Neglect of Prayer is Progressive—Beware how you neglect secret prayer and a study of God’s word. These are your weapons against him who is striving to hinder your progress heavenward. The first neglect of prayer and Bible study makes easier the second neglect. The first resistance to the Spirit’s pleading prepares the way for the second resistance. Thus the heart is hardened, and?the conscience seared.—(Messages to Young People, 96.)?{Pr 181.4}[16]
§35
偶然的祷告会使你丧失对上帝的把握——祷告乃是心灵的呼吸，是属灵能力的秘诀，没有其他良方可以代替它，以保持心灵的健康。祈祷使心灵与生命的源泉直接接触，使宗教经验中的筋骨和肌肉健壮。疏忽祷告，或断断续续的祈祷，表面上看来是方便一些，但你却失去了与上帝的联系，属灵的能力失去了生气，宗教经验缺乏健康和活力。（MYP 249, 250.){Pr 182.1}[17]
§36
Sporadic Prayer Will Cause You to Lose Your Hold on God—Prayer is the breath of the soul. It is the secret of spiritual power. No other means of grace can be substituted and the health of the soul be preserved. Prayer brings the heart into immediate contact with the Wellspring of life, and strengthens the sinew and muscle of the religious experience. Neglect the exercise of prayer, or engage in prayer spasmodically, now and then, as seems convenient, and you lose your hold on God. The spiritual faculties lose their vitality, the religious experience lacks health and vigor.—(Messages to Young People, 249, 250.){Pr 182.1}[17]
§37
私祷应当私密——在私下的祷告中，各人有特权要祷告多长就多长，也可随心所欲坦率陈辞。他们可以为自己的亲戚朋友代祷。个人的房间乃是倾吐私人烦恼，苦难，及试探的地方。公共敬拜上帝的场所，却不是发表心中隐情的地方。（2T.578）{Pr 182.2}[18]
§38
Private Prayer Should Be Private—In private prayer all have the privilege of praying as long as they desire and of being as explicit as they please. They can pray for all their relatives and friends. The closet is the place to tell all their private difficulties, and trials, and temptations. A common meeting to worship God is not the place to open the privacies of the heart.—(Testimonies for the Church 2:578.){Pr 182.2}[18]
§39
在个人灵修的时候，我们的祷告达到那位听祈祷之主的耳中。没有好奇的耳朵来偷听你祈求的内容。{Pr 182.3}[19]
§40
In secret devotion our prayers are to reach the ears of none but the prayer-hearing God. No curious ear is to receive the burden of such petitions.{Pr 182.3}[19]
§41
“你祷告的时候，要进你的内屋”（太6:5）。要有一个私下祷告的地方。耶稣曾选择祂与上帝相交的地方。我们也当如此。我们需要经常退到一个能独自与上帝相处的地方，不管这地方是怎样简陋。{Pr 182.4}[20]
§42
“When thou prayest, enter into thy closet.” Have a place for secret prayer. Jesus had select places for communion with God, and so should we. We need often to retire to some spot, however humble, where we can be alone with God.{Pr 182.4}[20]
§43
“祷告你在暗中的父”（太6:5）。我们奉耶稣的圣名，怀着孩子般的信心来到上帝面前。不需要人作为中介。我们可以藉着耶稣向上帝敞开心扉，就像对一位相知相爱的人一样。{Pr 182.5}[21]
§44
“Pray to thy Father which is in secret.” In the name of Jesus we may come into God’s presence with the confidence of a child. No man is needed to act as a mediator. Through Jesus we may open our hearts to God as to one who knows and loves us.{Pr 182.5}[21]
§45
在私下祷告的地方，只有上帝的眼睛能够看到，只有上帝的耳朵能够听见。我们可向无穷慈怜的天父倾吐我们心中最隐秘的愿望。在心灵安静的时候，那从不拒绝回应人类需求的声音，将向我们的心灵说话。?{Pr 182.6}[22]
§46
In the secret place of prayer, where no eye but God’s can see, no ear but His can hear, we may pour out our most hidden desires and longings to the Father of infinite pity, and in the hush and?silence of the soul that voice which never fails to answer the cry of human need will speak to our hearts.?{Pr 182.6}[22]
§47
“主是满心怜悯，大有慈悲”(雅5:11)。祂怀着永不疲倦的爱，随时准备倾听刚愎之人的认罪，接受他们悔改。祂等候我们向祂报以感恩，犹如慈母等候她所疼爱的孩子脸上出现认识她的微笑。祂巴不得我们明白祂的慈心是如何诚恳亲切地眷念着我们。祂邀请我们带来自己的艰辛，接受祂的体恤；带来我们的忧愁，接受祂的慈爱；带来我们的创伤，接受祂的医治；带来我们的软弱，接受祂的能力；带来我们的空虚，接受祂的丰盛。到祂面前的人绝不会失望。“凡仰望祂的，便有光荣，他们的脸，必不蒙羞”(诗34:5)。{Pr 183.1}[23]
§48
“The Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.”?James 5:11. He waits with unwearied love to hear the confessions of the wayward and to accept their penitence. He watches for some return of gratitude from us, as the mother watches for the smile of recognition from her beloved child. He would have us understand how earnestly and tenderly His heart yearns over us. He invites us to take our trials to His sympathy, our sorrows to His love, our wounds to His healing, our weakness to His strength, our emptiness to His fullness. Never has one been disappointed who came unto Him. “They looked unto Him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.”?Psalm 34:5.{Pr 183.1}[23]
§49
凡在暗中寻求上帝，诉说自己的需要，恳求祂帮助的人，决不会白白祈求。“你父在暗中察看，必在明处报答你”（太6:4）。我们以基督为我们每天的伴侣，就会感受到看不见之世界的能力围绕着我们。藉着仰望耶稣，我们会变得与祂的形像相似。我们在仰望中改变。品格得到软化、纯炼和提高，与天上的国度相称。我们与主相交，必然会增进虔诚、圣洁和热心。通过祈祷，我们的智慧得以增长。我们正在接受神圣的教育，其效果表现在勤恳热诚的人生中。{Pr 183.2}[24]
§50
Those who seek God in secret telling the Lord their needs and pleading for help, will not plead in vain. “Thy Father which seeth in secret Himself shall reward thee openly.” As we make Christ our daily companion we shall feel that the powers of an unseen world are all around us; and by looking unto Jesus we shall become assimilated to His image. By beholding we become changed. The character is softened, refined, and ennobled for the heavenly kingdom. The sure result of our intercourse and fellowship with our Lord will be to increase piety, purity, and fervor. There will be a growing intelligence in prayer. We are receiving a divine education, and this is illustrated in a life of diligence and zeal.{Pr 183.2}[24]
§51
那些藉着每天诚恳的祈祷向上帝祈求帮助、扶持和能力的人，必有崇高的抱负，对于真理和责任的清楚认识，高尚的行为宗旨，和不断饥渴慕义的心。由于我们与上帝保持联络，在我们和别人交往的时候，就能把充满我们心灵的亮光、平静和安宁向他们散布。我们通过祈祷上帝而得到力量，加上培养心智深思熟虑的不懈努力，就准备好胜任日常的职责，并在任何环境下保持平静的心态。（MB 84，85）{Pr 183.3}[25]
§52
The soul that turns to God for its help, its support, its power, by daily, earnest prayer, will have noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth and duty, lofty purposes of action, and a continual hungering and thirsting after righteousness. By maintaining a connection with God, we shall be enabled to diffuse to others, through our association with them, the light, the peace, the serenity, that rule in our hearts. The strength acquired in prayer to God, united with persevering effort in training the mind in thoughtfulness and care-taking, prepares one for daily duties and keeps the spirit in peace under all circumstances.—(Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, 84, 85.){Pr 183.3}[25]
§53
我怕有些人没有在私祷中向上帝陈明自己的困难，他们把这些难题保留着，而带到祷告会里，补作好几天的祷告。这等人可说是议事会及祷告会的凶手。他们没有传光，也不造就任何人。他们那冰冷枯燥的祷告，消极冗长的见证，给会众投下一重暗影。他们祷告一结束，大家都高兴。他们的祷告及讲论给会场带来的是几乎无法消散的寒冷和黑暗。从我得的亮光看来，我们的聚会应当是属灵的，亲睦的，但却不可太长。人们应当把自己的含蓄、骄傲、虚荣和恐惧都留在家里。在赴这些聚会之时，也不可带有一点异见及成见。正如一个精诚团结的家庭，赴会的弟兄姐妹们的心里，都应存着纯朴、温柔、信任和仁爱，并借他们带来的亮光使大家奋兴活泼起来。（2T.578, 579.){Pr 184.1}[26]
§54
There are some, I fear, who do not take their troubles to God in private prayer, but reserve them for the prayer meeting, and there do up their praying for several days. Such may be named conference and prayer meeting killers. They emit no light; they edify no one. Their cold, frozen prayers and long, backslidden testimonies cast a shadow. All are glad when they get through, and it is almost impossible to throw off the chill and darkness which their prayers and exhortations bring into the meeting. From the light which I have received, our meetings should be spiritual and social, and not too long. Reserve, pride, vanity, and fear of man should be left at home. Little differences and prejudices should not be taken with us to these meetings. As in a united family, simplicity, meekness, confidence, and love should exist in the hearts of brethren and sisters who meet to be refreshed and invigorated by bringing their lights together.—(Testimonies for the Church 2:578, 579.){Pr 184.1}[26]
§55
私祷能使人明了自我——再没有什么比私祷更能使人明了自我了。那在暗中察看并且知道一切的主，必启发你的悟性，应允你的恳求。不可忽视的清楚简明的本分必展现在你面前。 (5T. 163.){Pr 184.2}[27]
§56
Secret Prayer Provides a Clear Picture of Self—Nothing will give such clear views of self as secret prayer. He who seeth in secret and knoweth all things, will enlighten your understanding and answer your petitions. Plain, simple duties that must not be neglected will open before you.—(Testimonies for the Church 5:163.){Pr 184.2}[27]
§57
私祷培养高尚的品格——在末日的危险中，青年人唯一的保障乃在于不断加强儆醒和祷告。凡在读经和祷告的时辰中获得快乐的青年人，必不断从生命泉源中得到振奋。他必达到别人所无法达到的道德高峰和思想深渊。他既与上帝交通，就能助长良善的思想，高尚的愿望和对真理的清楚认识，以及行事的崇高动机。凡如此与上帝联络的人必被祂承认为自己的儿女。他们正向着高处不断前进，对上帝和永生的事有更清楚的认识，直到上帝以他们为向世人传达真光和智慧的通道。{Pr 184.3}[28]
§58
Private Prayer Cultivates a Noble Character—Amid the perils of these last days, the only safety of the youth lies in ever-increasing watchfulness and prayer. The youth who finds his joy in reading the word of God, and in the hour of prayer, will be constantly refreshed by drafts from the fountain of life. He will attain a height of moral excellence and a breadth of thought of which others can not conceive. Communion with God encourages good thoughts, noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth, and lofty purposes of action. Those who thus connect themselves with God are acknowledged by Him as His sons and daughters. They are constantly reaching higher and still higher, obtaining clearer views of God and of eternity, until the Lord makes them channels of light and wisdom to the world.{Pr 184.3}[28]
§59
但是人们对祈祷缺乏应有的认识。我们的祷告不是向上帝报告祂所不知道的事。主熟知每一个人的秘密。我们的祷告不必冗长而高声。上帝洞察人最隐秘的思想。我们在暗处祷告，那位在暗中观察的主必垂听，并在明处回应我们。{Pr 185.1}[29]
§60
But prayer is not understood as it should be. Our prayers are not to inform God of something He does not know. The Lord is acquainted with the secrets of every soul. Our prayers need not be long and loud. God reads the hidden thought. We may pray in secret, and He who sees in secret will hear, and will reward us openly.{Pr 185.1}[29]
§61
如果我们一点儿也不感到自己可怜，却告诉上帝说自己是如何可怜，这样的祷告乃是伪善的。主所重视的，乃是悔改的祷告。“因为那至高至上，住在永远，名为圣者的如此说：我住在至高至圣的所在，也与心灵痛悔谦卑的人同居，要使谦卑人的灵苏醒，也使痛悔人的心苏醒”（赛 57:15,16）。 (YI.1898.8.18){Pr 185.2}[30]
§62
The prayers that are offered to God to tell Him of all our wretchedness, when we do not feel wretched at all, are the prayers of hypocrisy. It is the contrite prayer that the Lord regards. “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”(The Youth’s Instructor, August 18, 1898.){Pr 185.2}[30]
§63
属灵的力量来自私下的祷告——那些肯披上上帝的全副军装，每日花时间默想，祈祷和读经的人，必与上天有联络，并对四围的人有改变及拯救的感化力。他们必有伟大的思想、高尚的抱负、对于真理及对上帝所负义务的清楚认识。他们必渴望纯洁、亮光、爱心、出自天上的一切恩典。他们恳切的祈祷必进入幔内。这等人必有一种圣洁的勇气，来到无穷上帝的面前。他们必感到天上的亮光和荣耀都是为了他们。他们也必因这种与上帝的亲密交往而变得优雅、高尚、高贵。这乃是每个真基督徒的特权。{Pr 185.3}[31]
§64
Spiritual Strength Comes Through Private Prayer—Those who will put on the whole armor of God and devote some time every day to meditation and prayer and to the study of the Scriptures will be connected with heaven and will have a saving, transforming influence upon those around them. Great thoughts, noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth and duty to God, will be theirs. They will be yearning for purity, for light, for love, for all the graces of heavenly birth. Their earnest prayers will enter into that within the veil. This class will have a sanctified boldness to come into the presence of the Infinite One. They will feel that heaven’s light and glories are for them, and they will become refined, elevated, ennobled by this intimate acquaintance with God. Such is the privilege of true Christians.{Pr 185.3}[31]
§65
抽象的思考是不够的；忙碌的行为也是不够的；这两者对于形成基督化的品格都是必要的。在恳切的私祷中获得的力量，预备我们抵挡社会的种种诱惑。可是我们也不该使自己与世隔绝，因为我们的基督徒经验是要成为世上的光的。不信的友伴不会对我们有任何伤害，只要我们与他们结交的目的是为了使他们与上帝相联络，并且在属灵上坚强到足以抵挡他们的影响。（5T .112, 113）{Pr 185.4}[32]
§66
Abstract meditation is not enough; busy action is not enough; both are essential to the formation of Christian character. Strength acquired in earnest, secret prayer prepares us to withstand the allurements of society. And yet we should not exclude ourselves from the world, for our Christian experience is to be the light of the world. The society of unbelievers will do us no harm if we mingle with them for the purpose of connecting them with God and are strong enough spiritually to withstand their influence.—(Testimonies for the Church 5:112, 113.){Pr 185.4}[32]
§67
上帝接受默默的祈祷——主必接纳心灵负重之人默默的祈祷。 (2BC. 1014）{Pr 186.1}[33]
§68
God Accepts Silent Prayer—The Lord will accept even the silent petition of a burdened heart.—(The SDA Bible Commentary 2:1014.){Pr 186.1}[33]
§69
祷告要先于见证——在你为别人作个人之工前，要多进行私下的祷告。因为要明白救灵的科学，需要有很大的智慧。在你与别人交往以前，要先与基督交往。要在天国的施恩座前获得为别人服务的资格。（COL 149){Pr 186.2}[34]
§70
Prayer Must Precede Witnessing—Personal effort for others should be preceded by much secret prayer; for it requires great wisdom to understand the science of saving souls. Before communicating with men, commune with Christ. At the throne of heavenly grace obtain a preparation for ministering to the people.—(Christ’s Object Lessons, 149.){Pr 186.2}[34]
§71
我们必须领受亮光和祝福，好使我们有东西可以分授他人。每一个工人都有特权首先在隐秘的祷告处与上帝交谈，然后作为上帝的代言人与众人交谈。凡与上帝交通，有基督住在心中的人，会使讲话的氛围成圣，因为他们是在与圣天使合作。当今的时代需要的就是这样的见证（6T 52){Pr 186.3}[35]
§72
We must receive light and blessing, that we may have something to impart. It is the privilege of every worker first to talk with God in the secret place of prayer and then to talk with the people as God’s mouthpiece. Men and women who commune with God, who have an abiding Christ, make the very atmosphere holy, because they are co-operating with holy angels. Such witness is needed for this time.—(Testimonies for the Church 6:52.){Pr 186.3}[35]
§73
工作和祷告要相结合——我们必须度一种双重的生活──思想与行动，默祷与恳切作工的生活。……人若每日恳切祈祷，向上帝求力量，求援助，求能力，就必得高尚的志愿，对真理及责任有清楚的了解，在行动上有崇高的动机，并要继续不断地饥渴慕义。 (4T. 459, 460）{Pr 186.4}[36]
§74
Work and Prayer Must Be Combined—We must live a twofold life—a life of thought and action, of silent prayer and earnest work.... The soul that turns to God for its strength, its support, its power, by daily, earnest prayer, will have noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth and duty, lofty purposes of action, and a continual hungering and thirsting after righteousness.—(Testimonies for the Church 4:459, 460.){Pr 186.4}[36]
§75
如果我们让繁忙的工作使自己偏离了每天寻求主的宗旨，那就犯了最大的错误，我们就会蒙受损失，因为主不与我们同在。我们关闭了心门，使祂无法进入我们的心。可是如果我们即使在操劳时也祈祷，救主就会侧耳倾听我们的恳求。……上帝在你工作的地点照顾你。不过一有可能，就要到平日祷告的地方去。（MM 216){Pr 186.5}[37]
§76
If the rush of work is allowed to drive us from our purpose of seeking the Lord daily, we shall make the greatest mistakes; we shall incur losses, for the Lord is not with us. We have closed the door so that He cannot find access to our souls. But if we pray, even when our hands are employed, the Saviour’s ear is open to hear our petitions.... God takes care of you in the place where it is your duty to be. But be sure, as often as possible, to go where prayer is wont to be made.—(Medical Ministry, 216.){Pr 186.5}[37]
§77
祷告时使用简单的语言——夸张的话不论是在讲台上、家庭中或密室里都不适合于祷告。特别是作公众祷告的人，更当用简明的话语，使人人都能理解他所说的话，可与他同心祈求。{Pr 187.1}[38]
§78
Use Simple Language in Prayer—High-flown language is inappropriate in prayer, whether the petition be offered in the pulpit, in the family circle, or in secret. Especially should the one offering public prayer use simple language, that others may understand what is said and unite with the petition.{Pr 187.1}[38]
§79
蒙上天垂听，而在地上得到应允的，是由衷而出的信心祈祷。（GW 177){Pr 187.2}[39]
§80
It is the heart-felt prayer of faith that is heard in heaven and answered on earth.—(Gospel Workers, 177.){Pr 187.2}[39]
§81
在祷告时双膝跪下是我们的特权——无论是参加公众的礼拜或是个人的灵修，我们在祷告时双膝跪在上帝面前，乃是我们的特权。我们的榜样主耶稣曾“跪下祷告”（路22:41）。圣经记载祂的门徒也是“跪下祷告”（徒9:40）。保罗说：“我在父面前屈膝”（弗3:14）。以斯拉“双膝跪下”（拉9:5），在上帝面前承认以色列的罪。但以理“一日三次，双膝跪在上帝面前，祷告感谢”（但6:10）。（PK 48）{Pr 187.3}[40]
§82
It Is Our Privilege to Kneel When in Prayer—Both in public and in private worship it is our privilege to bow on our knees before God when we offer our petitions to Him. Jesus, our example, “kneeled down, and prayed.”?Luke 22:41. Of His disciples it is recorded that they, too, “kneeled down, and prayed.”?Acts 9:40. Paul declared, “I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”?Ephesians 3:14. In confessing before God the sins of Israel, Ezra knelt. See?Ezra 9:5. Daniel “kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God.”?Daniel 6:10.—(Prophets and Kings, 48.){Pr 187.3}[40]
§83
不要参加妨碍你私下祷告的的娱乐活动——任何娱乐，只要你相信你能求上帝赐福的，就不会有什么危害。但是若有什么娱乐妨碍你私下祷告，家庭祷告时辰的灵修或参加祷告会，它对你就不是安全，而是危险的了。（MYP 386){Pr 187.4}[41]
§84
Engage in No Amusement That Disqualifies You for Private Prayer—Any amusement in which you can engage asking the blessing of God upon it in faith, will not be dangerous. But any amusement which disqualifies you for secret prayer, for devotion at the altar of prayer, or for taking part in the prayer meeting, is not safe, but dangerous.—(Messages to Young People, 386.){Pr 187.4}[41]
§85
上帝在我们祷告的隐密处看见我们——我们必须像拿但业一样，自己研究上帝的话，并祈求圣灵的光照。那在无花果树底下看见拿但业的主，也必在祷告的隐密处看见我们。光明世界的天使，必要靠近那些谦卑地寻求上帝引导的人。（DA 141）{Pr 187.5}[42]
§86
God Sees Us in Our Secret Prayer Place—Like Nathanael, we need to study God’s word for ourselves, and pray for the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit. He who saw Nathanael under the fig tree will see us in the secret place of prayer. Angels from the world of light are near to those who in humility seek for divine guidance.—(The Desire of Ages, 141.){Pr 187.5}[42]
§87
我们的祷告不会失落——我们不配而有罪的人类竟有权利向上帝提出请求，我们的祷告竟能发生效果，这真是一件奇妙的事。与无穷的上帝相联——人还能希望得到什么更高的权力呢？软弱有罪的人有权利与他们的创造主说话。我们所说的话竟能达到宇宙大君的宝座前。我们行路时可以与耶稣交谈。祂说：我在你的右边（见诗16:8）。{Pr 187.6}[43]
§88
Our Prayers Cannot Be Lost—It is a wonderful thing that we can pray effectually; that unworthy, erring mortals possess the power of offering their requests to God. What higher power can?man desire than this,—to be linked with the infinite God? Feeble, sinful man has the privilege of speaking to his Maker. We may utter words that reach the throne of the Monarch of the universe. We may speak with Jesus as we walk by the way, and He says, I am at thy right hand. [See?Psalm 16:8.]?{Pr 187.6}[43]
§89
我们可以在心中与上帝交通，也可与基督结伴同行。当我们从事日常工作的时候，我们可以倾心吐意，而不被任何人的耳朵所听闻。但我们的话决不会寂然消失。没有什么事能压抑心灵的愿望。它能超脱街市的嘈杂和机器的噪音。我们是与上帝说话，所以我们的祈祷必蒙垂听。{Pr 188.1}[44]
§90
We may commune with God in our hearts; we may walk in companionship with Christ. When engaged in our daily labor, we may breathe out our heart’s desire, inaudible to any human ear; but that word cannot die away into silence, nor can it be lost. Nothing can drown the soul’s desire. It rises above the din of the street, above the noise of machinery. It is God to whom we are speaking, and our prayer is heard.{Pr 188.1}[44]
§91
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。（GW 258）{Pr 188.2}[45]
§92
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.—(Gospel Workers, 258.){Pr 188.2}[45]
§93
凡受人苦待和冤屈的人，务要求告上帝，不要去求告铁石心肠的人，要把你的请求告诉你的创造主。凡怀着痛悔的心到祂面前来的人，没有一个会遭到拒绝。没有一句真诚的祈祷会落空。上帝在天国诗班的乐声中，能听到最软弱之人的呼求。我们可以在自己的密室中倾心吐意，或在路上默然祷告，我们的话语都必达到宇宙主宰的宝座之前。这些祈祷也许不为任何人所听到，但是绝不会默然消失，也不会淹没在日常的事务中。没有什么事物能压抑心灵的愿望。它能从街市的吵闹和人群的纷扰中直升天庭。我们既向上帝倾诉，我们的祈祷就必蒙垂听。（COL 174）{Pr 188.3}[46]
§94
Let all who are afflicted or unjustly used, cry to God. Turn away from those whose hearts are as steel, and make your requests known to your Maker. Never is one repulsed who comes to Him with a contrite heart. Not one sincere prayer is lost. Amid the anthems of the celestial choir, God hears the cries of the weakest human being. We pour out our heart’s desire in our closets, we breathe a prayer as we walk by the way, and our words reach the throne of the Monarch of the universe. They may be inaudible to any human ear, but they cannot die away into silence, nor can they be lost through the activities of business that are going on. Nothing can drown the soul’s desire. It rises above the din of the street, above the confusion of the multitude, to the heavenly courts. It is God to whom we are speaking, and our prayer is heard.—(Christ’s Object Lessons, 174.){Pr 188.3}[46]