The Nature, Reasonableness, and Advantages of Prayer: With an Attempt to Answer the Objections Against It. a Sermon by William Leechman

The Nature, Reasonableness, And Advantages Of Prayer: With An Attempt To Answer The Objections Against It. A Sermon By William Leechman. This sermon argues that prayer is a reasonable and essential practice for Christians. Leechman defines prayer primarily as petition, rooted in three inward acts: a deep sense of dependence on God; fervent desire for guidance, forgiveness, and relief from error; and confident trust that God the Father will provide what is good for the whole creation. He contends prayer is not for informing God of needs but for forming the worshipper’s mind and will, and it fosters humility, contrition, virtue, and perseverance. The work surveys common objections—such as God’s omniscience, the supposed futility of petition in light of divine decree, and the claim that prayer changes nothing—and answers them by arguing that prayer shapes character, aligns us with divine purposes, and strengthens love and compassion toward others. It closes with practical reflections on prayer as a safeguard against temptation and a path to wisdom, peace, and ultimate happiness.