I think, with you, that it is very expedient and proper that reading a portion of the Word of God should be ordinarily a part of our family worship; so likewise to sing a hymn or psalm, or part of one, at discretion; provided there are some people in the family who have enough of a musical ear and voice to conduct the singing in a tolerable manner: otherwise, perhaps, it may be better omitted. If you read and sing, as well as pray, care should be taken that the combined services do not run into an inconvenient length.
— John Newton (1725–1807), Pfarrer/Liederdichter
Topics: Prayer & Silence, Relationships & Family, The Bible & the Word of God
John Newton
John Newton (1725–1807) war ein englischer Seefahrer und späterer anglikanischer Geistlicher, der in Olney und London wirkte. Bekannt wurde er als Dichter des Liedes „Amazing Grace“ sowie als Abolitionist, nachdem er zuvor jahrelang selbst als Kapitän auf Sklavenschiffen tätig gewesen war. Für heutige Bibelleser veranschaulicht sein Werk die theologische Reflexion über Schuld und Vergebung sowie die seelsorgliche Dimension von Gottes Gnade.
All quotes by John Newton (45)
When we pray, the circumstances often remain the same, but we become different.
Oswald Chambers
Prayer does not change God, but the one who prays.
Søren Kierkegaard
Courage is fear that has said its prayers.
Corrie ten Boom
To pray is to draw breath from God.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Prayer does not equip us for greater works – prayer is the greater work.
Oswald Chambers
God has his ear at your heart.
Augustine of Hippo
Prayers are tools not for doing or getting, but for being and becoming.
Eugene Peterson