Prayer Is the Soul’s Sincere Desire

James Montgomery’s hymn Prayer Is the Soul’s Sincere Desire is one of the clearest and richest reflections on the nature of Christian prayer. Written in 1818, the hymn explains prayer not as a mere form or outward habit but as the deep, honest longing of the heart turned toward God. Drawing from Philippians 4:6, it echoes the apostle Paul’s command to bring every concern to God with supplication and thanksgiving. It also reflects the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 6:6, where believers are taught to enter the secret place and commune with the Father in genuine sincerity.

Montgomery unfolds the many forms prayer may take, whether spoken or silent, joyful or sorrowful, structured or spontaneous. His hymn expresses that true prayer can be a sigh, a tear, a desire for forgiveness, or a plea for help. It reminds the believer that God listens not only to the words on the lips but also to the emotions and burdens carried inwardly. By describing prayer as the breath of a redeemed soul, Montgomery helps Christians understand that prayer is the continual expression of a heart that trusts in God.

The hymn strengthens the believer’s view of prayer as both a privilege and a necessity. It encourages a life of constant communion with God, rooted in honesty, humility, and dependence. Its teaching elevates prayer beyond routine, urging believers to approach the Lord with heartfelt sincerity, confident that He understands every longing and responds with grace, comfort, and strength.