Sweet hour of Prayer

Do you have a garden or a lovely spot in your yard that you enjoy visiting often? It’s a peaceful place where you can simply sit quietly, stay silent, listen to the birds as they sing, and pour your heart out to God. In these moments, you can express your deepest gratitude, share your worries and hopes, or offer prayers on behalf of your family and friends. I envision this as my special garden, a sanctuary where I can retreat in solitude for my precious, sweet hour of prayer and reflection. I truly enjoyed sitting at my easel and painting this piece; the process gently calmed my spirits and gave me space to reflect on many thoughts and feelings that have been stirring quietly in my mind and heart.

Here I include the beautiful hymn that served as the inspiration for this particular piece.

Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!

that calls me from a world of care,

and bids me at my Father's throne

make all my wants and wishes known.

In seasons of distress and grief,

my soul has often found relief,

and oft escaped the tempter's snare

by thy return, sweet hour of prayer!

2 Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!

the joys I feel, the bliss I share

of those whose anxious spirits burn

with strong desires for thy return!

With such I hasten to the place

where God my Savior shows his face,

and gladly take my station there,

and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!

3 Sweet hour of prayer! sweet hour of prayer!

thy wings shall my petition bear

to him whose truth and faithfulness

engage the waiting soul to bless.

And since he bids me seek his face,

believe his word, and trust his grace,

I'll cast on him my every care,

and wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer!