Did You Think to Pray?

“Ere you left your room this morning, Did you think to pray?” begins this thoughtful hymn by Mary Ann Pepper Kidder. It challenges us to consider whether our first thought upon waking was to pray and seek the Lord’s favor as protection for the day ahead. The hymn poses a simple but profound question in each verse: did you think to pray in moments of temptation, anger, or sorrow? The refrain, “Oh how praying rests the weary! Prayer will change the night to day; So when life gets dark and dreary, Don’t forget to pray,” offers assurance that prayer brings peace and transforms our darkest moments into light.

The hymn’s unique meter 8.5.8.8.5.8.7.8.5 with refrain, gives it an appealing rhythm that supports both reflective singing and congregational participation. Its repeated refrain acts like a loving reminder, urging believers not merely to say their prayers, but to truly lean on prayer as a sustaining spiritual habit. Its imagery prayer as shield, grace in anger, balm in sorrow is relatable and practical, making the hymn especially meaningful for daily devotion, Sunday school, and personal reflection.