Sweet Hour of Prayer

By W. W. Walford

Lyrics

1. 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!

Bible Reference

Matthew 6:6; Philippians 4:6–7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17

About This Hymn

"Sweet Hour of Prayer" is a classic Christian hymn written by William W. Walford in 1845. The hymn celebrates the intimate and peaceful communion that believers experience in prayer. It emphasizes the power of bringing one’s petitions and praises directly to God, describing prayer as a sweet, restorative hour that refreshes the soul and strengthens faith. The lyrics reflect on the accessibility of God to His children and the encouragement found in laying burdens at His feet.

The hymn is structured around the personal experience of prayer, highlighting moments of quiet reflection, intercession for others, and the comfort that comes from speaking to God with sincerity. Walford portrays prayer as a sanctuary from the trials and sorrows of life, a place where the believer can find solace and guidance. The recurring chorus reinforces the joy and blessing of this sacred time, inviting the singer to cherish and seek it regularly.

Musically, "Sweet Hour of Prayer" is commonly paired with a gentle and flowing melody that mirrors the calm and reflective nature of the text. Over the decades, it has been included in countless hymnals and remains a favorite in both personal devotion and congregational worship. The hymn continues to encourage Christians to cultivate a consistent and heartfelt prayer life, trusting in God’s wisdom, comfort, and faithful listening.