The Secret Key to Heaven
In the Christian life, nothing causes greater insecurity than to ask someone about their prayer life. Some of us may have had hesitancy over reading this article for that very reason. Or to put it bluntly, I have yet to meet someone who feels as if they pray too much. And yet, we all know that we should pray. We have been taught from a young age that prayer is the equivalent of breathing in the Christian life. In fact, Ananias knows of Paul’s conversion because “he prayeth.” (Acts 9:11) The Spirit of grace and the Spirit of supplication are always found together in the life of a Christian. If we know that we should pray, if we know the “vital importance” of prayer, then why don’t we? Thomas Brooks seeks to answer that question and remedy that problem. How?
Thomas Brooks (160-1680) divides this short paperback into six sections: an explanation of Matthew 6:6, twenty arguments for private prayer, the use and application of the doctrine, six objections stated and answered, eleven instructions concerning private prayer, directions for faithful private prayer, and closing advice. It should strike us that the majority of the sections focus on the why, not the how. If Thomas Brooks pastored today, he would say, “Your heart isn’t in it.” That - of all other issues - is the one for which he drives at most. Thomas Brooks takes aim at the heart. He regals us with the secret joys of private prayer. If we only unburden our hearts when alone with a dear friend, then what does that say of prayer? If the best time spent with our spouse is when we are alone, then what of prayer with our Christ? What of the power and protection of prayer? Brooks ignites the flames of affection all throughout our heart until it is consumed with prayer.
In one particular moving section, he states:
“Samson could not hide his mind, his secrets from Delilah, though it cost him his life (Judg. 16:15-17); and do you think that Christ can hide his mind, his secrets, from them for whom he hath laid down his life? Surely not. O sirs! Christ is:
1. A universal friend
2. An omnipotent friend, an almighty friend. He is no less than thirty times called Almighty in that book of Job; he can do above all expressions and beyond all apprehensions.
3. An omniscient friend.
4.An omnipresent friend.
5. An indeficient [complete and perfect] friend.
6. An independent friend.
7. An unchangeable friend.
8. A watchful friend.
9. A tender and compassionate friend.
10.A close and faithful friend.
Therefore he cannot but open and unburden his heart to all his dearest friends. To be reserved and close is against the very law of friendship.”
Need I say more? I could go on, but it may be best to say this about the book: I pray more. Of all the obstacles facing the church today and of all the opportunities we have before us, neither will be moved if we are not first a people moved to prayer. Thomas Brooks provides the fuel to propel our prayer life higher and higher.
