A Warning from George Muller

"Public prayer will never make up for closet communion." (The Autobiography of George Muller)

Born in Prussia in 1805, George Muller lived a sinful lifestyle and possessed a cold heart (by his own admission) until the night when God "began a work of grace" in him. Soon after, he surrendered to preaching the gospel.

From the first message he preached, he felt led to never ask anyone for money. He prayed for each need, refusing to even draw a salary. He lived a life of absolute faith and trust in Christ for every shilling needed for the ministry, as well as his own personal needs.

Every page of his autobiography is a testament to God's provision. George Muller lived his life in service to God, but in the midst of his amazing journey is this quote. Just before, he says, "I must offer a word of warning to believers. Often the work of the Lord itself may tempt us away from communion with Him."

We live our lives today in fast forward it seems. We sprint from activity to activity, even within the church community. Attending church services is good; being an active part of a small group is beneficial; setting aside time to serve in ministries is commendable . . . but nothing can replace time spent alone with God.

If a hero of the faith, someone I admire for his complete sacrifice to further the gospel of Christ, gives a warning, how can I not take heed? I must take the time (rather, I must make the time) to spend with God meditating on His Word, surrendering to His will, and hearing from Him in a personal way. Nothing else will satisfy than time alone with God.