[Gerhard lists out a number of abuses of the divine name]: When a person uses many words in prayer and think a person will be heard on that account (Matt. 6:7). When a person with his prayer relies on his own merit and worthiness. When a person does not pray in accordance with God’s will (1 Jn 5:14). When a person prays for that which runs counter to God’s command. When a person prays because he is consumed with his own sensuality (James 4:3). When a person prescribes in prayer to God the Lord the time and hour He is to help (Judith 8:11). When a person binds the power of prayer to particular places apart from, and contrary to, God’s Word (John 4:21). All of this applies to the abuse and desecration of the Name of God.—Johann Gerhard, Schola Pietatis III:279.
Who can be happier than the one who has God on his side, even if the whole world is against him?—C. F. W. Walther, God Grant It!, p. 587.
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