The way of prayer

549 L. M.
Design of prayer.

PRAYER is appointed to convey,
   The blessings God designs to give:
   Long as they live should Christians pray;
   They learn to pray when first they live.

2 If pain afllict, or wrongs oppress;
   If cares distract, or fears dismay;
   If guilt deject; if sin distress;
   In every case, still watch and pray.

3 ’Tis prayer supports the soul that’s weak:
   Though thought be broken, language lame,
   Pray, if thou canst or canst not speak;
   But pray with faith in Jesus’ name.

4 Depend on him; thou canst not fail;
   Make all thy wants and wishes known;
   Fear not; his merits must prevail:
   Ask but in faith, it shall be done.
                           Joseph Hart
                           Methodist Episcopal hymnal (1870 edition)