Prayer by Charles Kingsley (1854)
The work explores the nature and significance of prayer, emphasizing its rationality and necessity in human life. It begins with a call for prayer for missionary laborers, arguing that such requests align with God's will for human improvement. The author critiques the growing skepticism surrounding prayer, asserting that many civilized individuals increasingly doubt its efficacy. He challenges the notion that the universe operates solely on fixed laws, positing that prayer is not an impertinence but a vital expression of human need for divine connection. The text highlights the historical and existential importance of prayer, suggesting that it arises from humanity's innate longing for a higher power, especially in times of suffering and uncertainty. The author contrasts the faith of those facing adversity with the complacency of the comfortable, arguing that true belief often emerges from struggle. He emphasizes that prayer justifies God, acknowledging His goodness and willingness to listen. Ultimately, the work culminates in the revelation of God through Christ, who embodies divine love and compassion. It encourages believers to approach God with confidence, trusting that their prayers align with His will, particularly in the context of aiding those in need. The author concludes with a prayer for guidance and understanding, reinforcing the belief in a responsive and loving God.
By Charles Kingsley · First published 1854 · Genre: Religious, Spirituality, Nonfiction · 5,007 words
First lines
PSALM LXV. 2. Thou that hearest prayer, unto Thee shall all flesh come.
What this Textopian page supports
Prayer is listed on Textopian as a speech by Charles Kingsley, dated 1854 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Speech
- Author: Charles Kingsley
- Date: 1854 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious, Spirituality, Nonfiction, Self-help, Philosophy
- Length: 5,007 words
- Structure: 1 section, 44 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Prayer by Charles Kingsley
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Prayer?
- How does this speech by Charles Kingsley fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Religious first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Song Prayer by George Macdonald
- Prayer by George Macdonald
- Prayer Out Of The Deep by Charles Kingsley
- An Evening Prayer by George Macdonald
- The Word Of Jesus On Prayer by George Macdonald
- To My God by George Macdonald
Genres
- Religious — The title clearly references 'Prayer,' a core practice of many religions, suggesting that the central topic revolves around religion.
- Spirituality — Prayer as a practice often transcends religious boundaries, rendering 'Spirituality' as a probable genre in alignment with personal spiritual development and exploring the nature of prayer.
- Nonfiction — Prayer is a real-world concept and practice making 'Nonfiction' an applicable genre.
- Self-help — Books covering prayer can often offer instructions on how to better engage with or gain benefits from the practice, hence qualifying as 'Self-help.'
Tags
spirituality · faith · devotion · religion · prayer · meditation · reflection · Christianity · worship · inner peace · soul · transcendence