Call to Commitment

In this chapter, I wanted to insert a couple accounts of the power of revival praying. There is a touch of humor, as well, in the first account about the prayer of old Deacon Montague. But it was also a demonstration of spiritual power, which stirred everyone present, as well as the entire community. Montague was an old man, but the story that follows concerns young people in prayer. I have learned that nothing satisfies youth more that the reality of the movings of God. We also should observe that the Lord uses young people, just as he uses the older ones. In fact, the Bible teaches that He often called adolescents into His purposes and used them mightily.

 The last part of this section will tell of Finney’s call into the ministry and then, will show that the Holy Spirit, not only empowers, He also trains His servants for service. This is another principle plainly taught in Scripture and one that I would desire to see more candidates follow. In the first place, let them know that they are truly called of God and then, let them enter the school of the Holy Spirit, initiated by a baptism in His presence.

Finney’s employer, Esquire Wright

This morning, of which I have spoken, I went down into the office and there I was having the renewal of these mighty waves of love and salvation flowing over me when Esq. Wright came into the office, where I studied law. I said a few words to him on the subject of his salvation--I do not recollect what. He looked at me with astonishment but made no reply whatever that I recollect. He dropped his head, and after standing a few minutes left the office. I thought no more of it then, but afterwards found that the remark I made pierced him like a sword, and he did not recover from it till he was converted.