humility is beyond our reach. if it were a product of reaching, we would instinctively be proud of reaching it. it is a gift.
John PiperWe embrace the hand we've been dealt, because we know the Dealer, and he never deals badly.
John PiperWithout extended, concentrated prayer, the ministry of the Word withers. And when the ministry of the Word declines, faith (Rom. 10:17; Gal. 3:2, 5) and holiness (John 17:17) decline. Activity may continue, but life and power and fruitfulness fade away. Therefore, whatever opposes prayer opposes the whole work of ministry.
John Piper