A Call to Prayer by J C Ryle (Banner of Truth, 2002)

J C Ryle doesn’t beat around the bush: if you don’t pray, you are not a Christian. Just as breathing is the sign of life in a human, so is prayer the sign of life in a Christian.

This direct start perhaps serves to wake up the reader – he then becomes much more encouraging as he sets out the wonderful benefits of an active prayer life. He speaks of the greater closenes prayer brings to our Saviour, how it strengthens our faith and leads to growth in grace. He describes prayer as a remedy aginst the devil and a shield against backsliding. He also conveys the comfort of prayer, the peace that it gives, the lightening of crosses and the soothing of sorrows.

Ryle destroys all excuses against praying: lack of ability, time or place, faith or worthiness are all countered. He especially urges all who are still seeking the Lord to pray before it is too late.

Ryle ends his tract (for that is what he calls it) with directions for prayer. He mentions the importance of reverence, humility and spirituality in prayer. He is concerned to assure people that repetition in prayer is not a problem (as long as it does not become habitual), perseverance and earnestness are necessary, and faith and boldness are a must – ‘they have not, because they ask not’. Last but not least Ryle reminds us to be thankful in prayer, as we have so much to be thankful for.

Oh , let us keep an eye continually upon our private devotions. Here is the pith and marrow of our practical Christianity. Sermons and books and tracts, and committee meetings and the company of good men, are all good in their way, but they will never make up for the neglect of private prayer.

page 32

This tract of Ryle’s has appeared in various forms over the years. This review was written after reading the Banner of Truth booklet edition (pictured). It is also available in a modernised paperback edition published by Evangelical Press and an original facsimile edition by Gospel Mission.

Lorna