Whatsoever we ask, we receive of him,— There are four conditions on which men may expect to have their prayers heard: First, If they pray for things agreeable to the will of God; that is, for things in themselves truly good and proper. See ch. 1 John 5:14. Secondly, If they pray in a right manner, or with a right temper and disposition of mind; that is, with faith in the atoning Blood, and in the wisdom, goodness, power, and over-ruling providence of God; with humility and resignation to the Divine will, with importunity, patience, and perseverance: Thirdly, If they pray for a good end, or with a design to make a right use of mercies when bestowed: Fourthly, and above all, If they be real Christians, and of course keep the commandments of God, and do those things which are pleasing in his sight. In this verse, St. John assigns another reason forcultivating universal righteousness, and particularly mutual love; namely, that then their prayers would be heard, and God would grant them all proper blessings.

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