Another year is about to end, another year closer to eternity. The gracious God of heaven has showered us with blessings. Often for some, these may appear to be but blessings in disguise, yet surely we can all declare wholeheartedly, “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us,” “and we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (1 Samuel 7:12; Romans 8:28). It is truly a great God whom we serve.

In considering this opportunity for another Week of Prayer, we might echo the inspired words of the psalmist, “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth” (Psalm 121:1, 2). It is God alone that gives His people life, health, and all strength - physical, mental, and spiritual.

“Prayer brings Jesus to our side, and gives to the fainting, perplexed soul new strength to overcome the world, the flesh, and the devil. Prayer turns aside the attacks of Satan.”1 This is why the Week of Prayer is so important - it is a special time to assemble together closely with believers of like precious faith and to beseech the Lord for the purity and virtue He so much desires to give us through Christ alone, the ever-flowing Fountain of health and blessing.

Let us also keep in mind that Sabbath, December 10, has been set aside as a special day of prayer and fasting, and on Sunday, December 11, a special offering will be gathered to support the spreading of the present truth to new areas around the world.

May the Lord guide and comfort us with His abiding presence during this occasion, and fortify our hearts as we prayerfully consider the Author and Finisher of our salvation!