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For many
days there had been no rain in Ohio,
the fields were parched and brown, and everything cried out for water. The people
were anxious, and knew not what to do. One Sunday, before his sermon, Mr.
Finney prayed for rain. One who heard that prayer reported it after
twenty-three years, and said it was as fresh in his mind as though he had
heard it but yesterday. Finney told the Lord all about their great need, and
among other things said, 'We do not presume to dictate to Thee what is best
for us, yet Thou dost invite us to come to Thee as children to a father, and
tell Thee what we want. We want rain. Our pastures are dry. The cattle are
lowing and wandering about in search of water. Even the little squirrels in
the woods are suffering for the want of it. Unless Thou dost give us rain our
cattle must die, for we shall have no hay for them for winter; and our
harvests will come to nought. O Lord, send us rain, and send it now! Although
to us there is no sign of it, it is an easy thing for Thee to do. Send it
now, Lord, for Christ's sake!' And the Lord sent it. Before the service was
half over the rain came in such torrents that the preacher's voice could not
be heard; so with tears of wonder and joy and thanksgiving, they sang,
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From: THE
WAY OF HOLINESS By Samuel Logan Brengle, [seventh Edition], New York, The Salvation
Army Printing and Publishing House 122 West 14th Street, 1920.
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