Hindered Prayer

The Apostle Peter exhorts husbands and wives to love and faithfulness, that their "prayers be not hindered." Contention in the home disturbs the relation of husband and wife, not only to each other, but to God. Faithfulness to each other prepares them for communion with God. Quarrels between father and children, or brothers and sisters, disturb their religious life. So any neglect of duty in the family or in society hinders prayer. Quarrels in the church are an insurance against revival. "The Spirit, like a peaceful dove, flies from the realms of noise and strife." "If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath aught against thee, leave there thy gift before the altar and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift." An unforgiving spirit is not the spirit of prayer. Neither is a dishonest, or covetous, or sensuous spirit. Any sin unrepented of is a hindrance to prayer. Repentance, faithfulness in every duty, and watchfulness against temptation, are conditions of prayer.--Anon