1. THE FORM.--It should ordinarily be unwritten. Liturgical forms are to be rejected for several reasons: they have no example in the Scriptures; they did not come into use until the general corruption of worship; they serve to repress and fetter a devotional spirit both in the minister and the people; and they cannot be adapted to the varied, special exigencies of the congregation. But prayer, though extemporaneous in form, is not necessarily unpremeditated. The mind should, if possible, be lifted into the sphere of devotion and filled with the subjects of petition by previous reflection. Too often the pastor is anxious only for the sermon, and leaves the prayer, both in matter and form, to the moment of utterance; and an ordinary result is the repetition of solemn commonplaces which fail to inspire and lead the devotions of the congregation. 2. THE MATTER.--The best materials for prayer are derived from the following sources: (1.) The devotional parts of Scripture, made familiar by constant study. Bible thoughts in Bible imagery are best, because so sacredly linked with the experiences of all Christian hearts. These never grow old, and they afford endless variety and freshness. The mind should be thoroughly imbued with their spirit and stored with their forms of expression. (2.) Secret prayer, constantly maintained, with a deep and rich personal experience. More than any other exercise, public prayer is the outflow of the minister's inner life. His holiest experiences, gathered on his knees in secret, here find unpremeditated expression, and elevate and enrich and spiritualize the acts of public devotion. (3.) A full, heartfelt sympathy with the life of the people, in their temptations, their sorrows, their hopes, and their dangers. Their pastor's life should touch the life of his people on every side, and his heart beat in perpetual sympathy with them. Only thus can he truly lead them in presenting their hearts' desires before God. The mere recluse whose life is with books and not with men, who deals with ideas and not with experiences, may utter an elegant, and even an eloquent, prayer; but he has no power to inspire and lead souls, in these acts of public devotion, to come with all their needs to the Throne of Grace.