Leonard Ravenhill, a renowned 20th-century preacher and author, was a passionate advocate for fervent, Spirit-filled prayer. His life and ministry were a testament to the power of prayer, and his words continue to inspire and challenge believers today. This article explores some of his most impactful quotes, examining their meaning and relevance to our modern understanding of prayer. We'll delve into what Ravenhill meant by "prayer," exploring the depth of his convictions and the urgency he felt in calling believers to a deeper relationship with God through dedicated prayer.
What Did Leonard Ravenhill Mean by "Prayer"?
Ravenhill's understanding of prayer transcended mere requests or petitions. For him, prayer was a powerful spiritual weapon, a vital connection with the divine, and a means to unlock God's power in the world. He believed that true prayer was not simply a ritual, but a wrestling match with God, a passionate pursuit of His will, and a surrender of the self to His purposes. This concept forms the bedrock of understanding his numerous profound pronouncements on the subject. His emphasis was always on a transformative, life-altering encounter with God through prayer.
"The church will never rise above the level of its prayer life."
This quote encapsulates Ravenhill's core belief: the spiritual vitality of the church is directly proportional to its commitment to prayer. He argued that a shallow prayer life leads to a spiritually weak and ineffective church, unable to fulfill its God-given mission. A vibrant, passionate prayer life, however, fuels spiritual awakening, empowers evangelism, and unlocks God's blessings in unprecedented ways. The health and strength of any Christian community hinges upon its collective and individual engagement with fervent, dedicated prayer.
"The greatest tragedy of our time is not the wickedness of the wicked, but the silence of the good."
This poignant statement highlights Ravenhill's concern about the apathy and spiritual complacency prevalent among Christians. He wasn't merely criticizing outward sin, but the inaction and lack of intercession that allows evil to flourish. The "silence of the good" is a deafening absence of prayer – a failure to engage in the spiritual battle for the souls of humanity and the advancement of God's kingdom. This silence, he argued, is a far greater tragedy than the actions of those actively opposing God.
"God does not hear idle chatter, but wrestling prayer."
Ravenhill challenged the superficiality of casual, uninvolved prayer. He envisioned prayer as a dynamic engagement – a wrestling match with God, much like Jacob's encounter at Peniel. This "wrestling prayer" is characterized by persistence, desperation, and a relentless pursuit of God's will, even when faced with opposition or unanswered prayers. It's a prayer that leaves one changed and renewed, not just having made a request, but having truly encountered God in the process.
How Can We Apply Ravenhill's Teachings Today?
Applying Ravenhill's teachings requires a conscious effort to move beyond superficial prayers and embrace a deeper, more committed prayer life. This involves:
- Intentional Prayer Times: Dedicate specific times for focused, uninterrupted prayer.
- Fasting and Prayer: Combine prayer with fasting to amplify spiritual intensity.
- Corporate Prayer: Participate in corporate prayer meetings and prayer chains.
- Intercessory Prayer: Pray specifically for others, their needs, and the advancement of God's kingdom.
- Studying Scripture: Ground your prayers in God's word.
Ravenhill's legacy is a powerful call to rediscover the transformative power of prayer. His words serve as a wake-up call, urging us to move beyond mere routine and embrace a vibrant, life-changing relationship with God through fervent prayer. His challenge to the church remains profoundly relevant today. The need for earnest, passionate intercession is as crucial now as it ever was. The revival he yearned for hinges upon the consistent, dedicated prayer of God’s people.
