God never gives us discernment in order that we may criticise, but that we may intercede.

The spiritual leader should outpace the rest of the church, above all, in prayer. And

Above all let us humbly pray for the teaching of the Holy Spirit. He alone can apply truth to our hearts, and make us profit by what we read.

He who would teach the people to pray must first himself be given to prayer.

It is easier to find guides, someone to tell you what to do, than someone to be with you in a discerning, prayerful companionship as you work it out yourself. This is what spiritual direction is.

Anything perceived as nagging will be counterproductive and better left unsaid. Praying that his eyes be opened to the truth and his heart convicted will be far more effective than you telling him what to do. You can encourage him to do what's right and pray for him to do what's right, but ultimately it's God's voice that will have the greatest impact.

Sometimes I'm asked to list the most important steps in preparing for an evangelistic mission, and my reply is always the same: prayer . . . prayer . . . prayer.

When I have a problem of deciding right from wrong, I always give it three tests. First, I give it the common-sense test, and ask if it is reasonable. Then, I give it the prayer test. I ask God if it is good and edifying. Then, I give it the Scripture test. I see if the Bible has anything to say for or against it.

Prayer is the companion of Bible study.

As we remember prayer and take time to turn to the scriptures, our lives will be infinitely more blessed and our burdens will be made lighter.

Prayer is the source of the Christian life, a Christian's lifeline.

It is simply impossible to lead, without the aid of prayer, a virtuous life.