Prayer Is the Soul's Sincere Desire
Prayer is the soul's sincere desire
The hymn articulates a deeply Lutheran understanding of prayer as the response of faith to God's grace, emphasizing sincere devotion and heartfelt petition rather than mere formalism. It reflects the priesthood of all believers, teaching that prayer is the fundamental privilege and responsibility of every Christian soul.
History & Background
Written by James Montgomery in 1818, this hymn was first published in his collection 'The Christian Psalmist' and quickly became one of the most beloved English-language hymns on prayer. It has been included in countless Lutheran hymnals since the 19th century.
Hymnal Appearances
- Glory to God — 466
- Lutheran Worship — 304
- Trinity Hymnal — 572
- The Lutheran Hymnal — 454
- United Methodist Hymnal — 492
- Voices Together — 757
Bulletin Note
Written by James Montgomery in 1818, this hymn celebrates prayer as the sincere desire of the soul—reflecting the Lutheran conviction that all believers have access to God through Christ alone, without priestly mediation.
Preaching Connection
This hymn amplifies the Gospel by teaching that authentic prayer emerges when Law drives us to recognize our need and Gospel assures us of God's hearing and mercy.
Stanza Arc
The narrative or theological arc traced by this tune's stanzas: Law to Gospel: human inability to praise adequately (stanzas 1-2) → Christ's redemptive power transforming sinners (stanzas 3-5) → Trinitarian doxology (stanza 6)
Themes
Prayer and intercession Divine grace and mercy Christian devotion Trust in God Thanksgiving