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  SECRET PRAYER
  by Charles E. Cowman
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Summary: To know Jesus is life's highest attainment, and every Christian
should strive to be 'on the same old terms' with Him through secret
prayer and devotional Bible study.

Topics: "Personal Prayer", "Intimacy With God"
Scripture References: Psalm 119:18, Matthew 6:6, John 15:15, Hebrews 10:22, James 4:8

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DESCRIPTION
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Charles E. Cowman emphasizes the importance of cultivating a deep,
personal relationship with Jesus Christ, as seen in the story of an old
German professor who maintained a close friendship with the Lord through
secret prayer and devoted Bible study. The professor's simple yet
profound statement, 'Well, Lord Jesus, we're on the same old terms,'
reflects a deep intimacy and familiarity with Christ that every believer
should strive for. This intimacy with Jesus is achieved through
persistent prayer, a sympathetic study of the Bible, and a continual
pursuit of His presence in our lives.

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CONTENT
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"I have called you friends" (John 15:15).

Years ago there was an old German professor whose beautiful life was a
marvel to his students. Some of them resolved to know the secret of it;
so one of their number hid in the study where the old professor spent
his evenings.

It was late when the teacher came in. He was very tired, but he sat down
and spent an hour with his Bible. Then he bowed his head in secret
prayer; and finally closing the Book of books, he said,

"Well, Lord Jesus, we're on the same old terms."

To know Him is life's highest attainment; and at all costs, every
Christian should strive to be "on the same old terms with Him."

The reality of Jesus comes as a result of secret prayer, and a personal
study of the Bible that is devotional and sympathetic. Christ becomes
more real to the one who persists in the cultivation of His presence.

Speak thou to Him for He heareth,

And spirit with spirit will meet!

Nearer is He than breathing,

Nearer than hands and feet.

--Maltbie D. Babcock

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/charles-e-cowman/secret-prayer/
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