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The Essentials of Prayer [Annotated, Updated Edition]: How Christians Ought to Pray
New, updated, and annotated edition.
And the very God of peace sanctify you completely, that your spirit, soul, and body be preserved whole without reprehension for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:23)
Christians who pray well, who bring the largest things to pass, and who move God to do great things, are those who are entirely given over to God in their praying. God wants, and must have, all that there is in us. We must be wholehearted people through whom he can work out his purposes and plans concerning us. God must have us in our entirety. No double-minded people need apply. No vacillating person can be used. No person with a divided allegiance to God, the world, and self can do the praying that is needed. Holiness is wholeness, and so God wants holy people – wholehearted and true – for his service and for the work of praying.
This book challenges the reader to first make sure he is ready to pray, and it also shows from Scripture when and how we ought to pray. E. M. Bounds examines the lack of prayer and its causes, but he also includes examples of answered prayer to give hope to those who feel like their prayers aren't being answered. Some may experience guilt for their lack and inconsistency of prayer, but sincere Christians will also be stirred in their heart to pray, and to pray well.
And the very God of peace sanctify you completely, that your spirit, soul, and body be preserved whole without reprehension for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:23)
Christians who pray well, who bring the largest things to pass, and who move God to do great things, are those who are entirely given over to God in their praying. God wants, and must have, all that there is in us. We must be wholehearted people through whom he can work out his purposes and plans concerning us. God must have us in our entirety. No double-minded people need apply. No vacillating person can be used. No person with a divided allegiance to God, the world, and self can do the praying that is needed. Holiness is wholeness, and so God wants holy people – wholehearted and true – for his service and for the work of praying.
This book challenges the reader to first make sure he is ready to pray, and it also shows from Scripture when and how we ought to pray. E. M. Bounds examines the lack of prayer and its causes, but he also includes examples of answered prayer to give hope to those who feel like their prayers aren't being answered. Some may experience guilt for their lack and inconsistency of prayer, but sincere Christians will also be stirred in their heart to pray, and to pray well.
175 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1925
582 people are currently reading
334 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Bounds
325 books226 followersEdward McKendree Bounds was a Methodist minister, revivalist, author and lawyer.
Unsuccessful in the California gold rush of 1849, E.M. Bounds returned home to Missouri and became the state’s youngest practicing attorney at age 19. In his early twenties he was deeply impacted by the Third Great Awakening, and at age 24 he was ordained for ministry. During his lifetime he pastored churches, traveled as an evangelist, served as a Civil War chaplain, edited a Christian periodical and was a devoted husband and father. But E.M. Bounds is best known for prayer. His daily habit was to spend the time between 4 am and 7 am praying. His writings on prayer are widely acclaimed to be among the finest of any author before or since.
Unsuccessful in the California gold rush of 1849, E.M. Bounds returned home to Missouri and became the state’s youngest practicing attorney at age 19. In his early twenties he was deeply impacted by the Third Great Awakening, and at age 24 he was ordained for ministry. During his lifetime he pastored churches, traveled as an evangelist, served as a Civil War chaplain, edited a Christian periodical and was a devoted husband and father. But E.M. Bounds is best known for prayer. His daily habit was to spend the time between 4 am and 7 am praying. His writings on prayer are widely acclaimed to be among the finest of any author before or since.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 8, 2025
This was really a great book on prayer. It was inspirational and practical in how to make prayer a lifestyle. This was written 100 years ago yet still holds true and that is because it’s Bible based. He started with advice about going into prayer with an attitude that was well described. He talked about humility, devotion, suffering, consecration, and missions.
July 20, 2020
A good short book on the basics of prayer. You can read it for free through Aneko Press, they've been publishing a lot of these old Christian books as ebooks and audiobooks and they've been quite the blessing.
May 29, 2022
This book will challenge your prayer life. After reading it, I was both convicted and inspired to spend more time in praying. This book talks a lot about how we should pray and also about the possibilities when we do spend time in persistent and fervent prayer.
March 11, 2026
E.M. Bounds shares his secrets to prayer with readers. Renowned as a man of prayer, Bounds wrote to encourage Christians to pray and to tell them how to pray and live. He covers several aspects of prayer. His writing style is pleasant, zealous and educational. Highly recomended.
Read
August 1, 2020Only if the Church will return to its source of power; Prayer is the main thing not an extracurricular activity of for the mediocre Christian. Praise the Lord!! There are remnants upon the walls of the Nations who will not hold their peace until they have travailed like a woman in labor.
February 15, 2023
This is a book I like to read periodically. I think it is the best of the Bounds books on prayer. It is always encouraging.
April 30, 2025
This is a good and convicting book on prayer. It would have been helpful if he had talked more about HOW to foster more prayer instead of just WHY we should.
April 6, 2026
This was a very good reminder of the importance of prayer. Chapter 12, The Universality of Prayer” really spoke to my heart. It emphasizes the need for continual prayer.
“”Like our one mediator between God and man, he who prays stands midway between God and man, with prayers, supplications, “and strong cryings and tears.””
“”Like our one mediator between God and man, he who prays stands midway between God and man, with prayers, supplications, “and strong cryings and tears.””
October 9, 2021
This book wasn't what I expected. It would be more aptly titled "why a Christian ought to pray" instead of "how". Bounds shows how prayer is intertwined with many other aspects of life (trials, tribulation, thanksgiving, humility, works of God, missions, sanctification, etc) and how important our prayer life is in all these areas (how they build each other up). However, there is very little practical application or advise. It is still a decent read; interesting and still quite relevant for today, even if I don't agree with 100% of his theology.
February 21, 2026
The Essentials of Prayer by E.M. Bounds is a profound treatise on the transformative power of prayer, emphasizing its role as an indispensable spiritual discipline for Christian living. Published posthumously in 1913 as part of Bounds' extensive writings on prayer, the book argues that prayer is not merely a ritual but a vital connection to divine energy, capable of reshaping one's inner world and external circumstances. Bounds, a 19th-century Methodist minister, draws on biblical examples to illustrate how prayer fosters a deep, personal communion with the divine, enabling individuals to confront their deepest fears and desires. He writes, "Prayer is the mightiest agent to advance God's work," underscoring its potential to influence both personal growth and collective harmony (p. 12). The text explores prayer's multifaceted nature, from its ability to cultivate humility and resilience to its power in overcoming life's adversities. Bounds stresses that true prayer requires sincerity and persistence, stating, "Prayer is not a little speech to God; it is a life attitude" (p. 45). He also addresses the barriers to effective prayer, such as doubt or distraction, urging readers to integrate it as a daily practice that aligns the conscious self with a higher purpose. Another key insight is the communal aspect of prayer, where he notes, "Prayer unites us with God and with one another," highlighting its role in bridging individual isolation (p. 78). Bounds concludes that prayer is the key to unlocking spiritual vitality, with a final reflection: "The story of every great Christian achievement is the history of answered prayer" (p. 112). Through these themes, the book serves as a timeless guide for those seeking to deepen their spiritual practice and find meaning amid life's complexities.
The Essentials of Prayer stands as a timeless beacon for those navigating the inner landscapes of faith and self-discovery, it offers a vision of prayer not as rote obligation but as a dynamic force that harmonizes the fragmented aspects of human experience. Bounds' prose, though rooted in evangelical tradition, transcends denominational boundaries by illuminating how prayer acts as a conduit for reconciling opposing forces within the self (such as doubt and conviction, weakness and strength) fostering a sense of wholeness that echoes the universal quest for balance. His emphasis on persistent, heartfelt communion with the divine subtly reveals prayer as a pathway to integrating hidden facets of the psyche, where unspoken longings and archetypes of renewal emerge through quiet reflection. The book's power lies in its ability to transform abstract spiritual concepts into practical wisdom, urging readers to view prayer as a daily ritual that aligns personal aspirations with a larger cosmic order. Bounds' insight that "Prayer is the soul's sincere desire" speaks to its capacity to unearth buried truths, making it a profound tool for self-exploration. For the lay reader, this work is not merely instructional but evocative, inviting a deeper engagement with the rhythms of inner life that bind individual struggles to collective human patterns. Its appeal stems from this subtle interplay, where prayer becomes a mirror reflecting the eternal dance of light and shadow within us all.
E.M. Bounds (1835–1913) was a Methodist minister whose life was marked by a deep commitment to prayer, shaped by his experiences in the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction eras. Born in Missouri, Bounds served as a chaplain in the Confederate Army, where his encounters with suffering and mortality likely deepened his focus on spiritual discipline as a source of resilience. After the war, he dedicated himself to ministry, pastoring churches and emphasizing revival through prayer. The Essentials of Prayer was published posthumously in 1913, compiled from his manuscripts as part of a series of eight books on prayer that emerged in the early 20th century, a time when American Christianity was grappling with modernism, urbanization, and the aftermath of war.
The book's release coincided with a cultural moment of spiritual renewal in the U.S., where movements like the Holiness revival stressed personal piety and inner transformation as antidotes to societal chaos. Bounds' writings gained traction among evangelicals, influencing prayer-focused ministries and later figures in the charismatic movement. Over time, The Essentials of Prayer has been reprinted and translated, maintaining relevance in an age where individuals seek ways to reconcile internal conflicts and find harmony amid life's uncertainties.
The Essentials of Prayer is a worthwhile read for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual practice, whether a layperson exploring faith for the first time or someone revisiting familiar traditions. Its straightforward approach makes it accessible, offering practical insights into how prayer can serve as a tool for personal reflection and growth. It encourages a rhythm of introspection that can lead to greater self-awareness, helping readers navigate the complexities of daily existence with renewed purpose. Even if you're not deeply religious, the book's emphasis on sincerity and persistence can inspire a broader sense of mindfulness, making it a gentle entry point into exploring the hidden layers of one's inner world. Pair it with a journal for reflection to maximize its impact, or read it alongside stories of personal transformation to see how its principles play out in real life.
I completed this book in August 2025
6/10
The Essentials of Prayer stands as a timeless beacon for those navigating the inner landscapes of faith and self-discovery, it offers a vision of prayer not as rote obligation but as a dynamic force that harmonizes the fragmented aspects of human experience. Bounds' prose, though rooted in evangelical tradition, transcends denominational boundaries by illuminating how prayer acts as a conduit for reconciling opposing forces within the self (such as doubt and conviction, weakness and strength) fostering a sense of wholeness that echoes the universal quest for balance. His emphasis on persistent, heartfelt communion with the divine subtly reveals prayer as a pathway to integrating hidden facets of the psyche, where unspoken longings and archetypes of renewal emerge through quiet reflection. The book's power lies in its ability to transform abstract spiritual concepts into practical wisdom, urging readers to view prayer as a daily ritual that aligns personal aspirations with a larger cosmic order. Bounds' insight that "Prayer is the soul's sincere desire" speaks to its capacity to unearth buried truths, making it a profound tool for self-exploration. For the lay reader, this work is not merely instructional but evocative, inviting a deeper engagement with the rhythms of inner life that bind individual struggles to collective human patterns. Its appeal stems from this subtle interplay, where prayer becomes a mirror reflecting the eternal dance of light and shadow within us all.
E.M. Bounds (1835–1913) was a Methodist minister whose life was marked by a deep commitment to prayer, shaped by his experiences in the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction eras. Born in Missouri, Bounds served as a chaplain in the Confederate Army, where his encounters with suffering and mortality likely deepened his focus on spiritual discipline as a source of resilience. After the war, he dedicated himself to ministry, pastoring churches and emphasizing revival through prayer. The Essentials of Prayer was published posthumously in 1913, compiled from his manuscripts as part of a series of eight books on prayer that emerged in the early 20th century, a time when American Christianity was grappling with modernism, urbanization, and the aftermath of war.
The book's release coincided with a cultural moment of spiritual renewal in the U.S., where movements like the Holiness revival stressed personal piety and inner transformation as antidotes to societal chaos. Bounds' writings gained traction among evangelicals, influencing prayer-focused ministries and later figures in the charismatic movement. Over time, The Essentials of Prayer has been reprinted and translated, maintaining relevance in an age where individuals seek ways to reconcile internal conflicts and find harmony amid life's uncertainties.
The Essentials of Prayer is a worthwhile read for anyone seeking to deepen their spiritual practice, whether a layperson exploring faith for the first time or someone revisiting familiar traditions. Its straightforward approach makes it accessible, offering practical insights into how prayer can serve as a tool for personal reflection and growth. It encourages a rhythm of introspection that can lead to greater self-awareness, helping readers navigate the complexities of daily existence with renewed purpose. Even if you're not deeply religious, the book's emphasis on sincerity and persistence can inspire a broader sense of mindfulness, making it a gentle entry point into exploring the hidden layers of one's inner world. Pair it with a journal for reflection to maximize its impact, or read it alongside stories of personal transformation to see how its principles play out in real life.
I completed this book in August 2025
6/10
July 20, 2023
I came across the name E.M. Bounds while reading Fresh Wind, Fresh Fire, and then found the audiobook for this for free online, so decided to give it a try. It was a little bit of a mixed bag, but the good was really good - I particularly liked the chapters on devotion and consecration.
June 30, 2022
A short exhortation to pray more ...
A couple of weeks ago I had trouble sleeping for three nights in a row, and only on the third night did I realize I hadn’t even prayed for a good night's rest once. Well I promptly prayed to sleep better, and I honestly don’t remember if I slept well that night or not. I just remember the silliness of having a God who controls the universe and I was having trouble sleeping but didn’t pray about it.
Then I had to do something with my hands and noticed this free as an audiobook on Youtube (also available as a free kindle download) so I started listening.
This book is not a survey of prayers in the bible, or an exposition of on the theology of prayer, it is simply what I said in the first sentence, an short (less than 35k words) exhortation pray more.
First the author makes the argument that prayer is something which takes the entire body (I don’t think Bounds proves his point, though there are times and places for this, I tend to pray in a stream when I am praying well.) The rest of the book moves through things all Christians are in agreement with and then Bounds with some sparse quotes from church leaders & scripture, and some strong words convinces you, challenges you, and dares you, have you prayed about this thing?
Have you prayed about having more Humility? (2) Being more devoted to God (3) Have you been thankful? (4) Are you in trouble? (5) Are you going through tribulation? (6)
Here the book took a turn. Something of the nature of the book changed or me listening to the book and I had to stop listening and start reading. So I switched to the kindle version and kept reading. Prayer and God’s Work (7) focuses on sanctification, then there is being consecrated for God (8), more on being consecrated (9), compassion (10), prayer in groups (11) prayer for everyone (12), and Prayer and missions (13).
By far my favorite chapter was number 7, “Prayer and God’s Work”.
I didn’t really want to like this book, especially when I realized what it really was like but by the end I was looking forward to getting into it when I finished my daily goals in other readings. Like with memorizing and meditation on the God’s word, I tend to enjoy the theology more, but get more utility and from the exhortation. At times, Bounds can seem somewhat circular, I pray because of my love and devotion for God and my devotion is born of prayer. But any believer who has spent time intimately with God will have often had their mind go in such loops.
I’ll probably read it again at some point down the line ...
A couple of weeks ago I had trouble sleeping for three nights in a row, and only on the third night did I realize I hadn’t even prayed for a good night's rest once. Well I promptly prayed to sleep better, and I honestly don’t remember if I slept well that night or not. I just remember the silliness of having a God who controls the universe and I was having trouble sleeping but didn’t pray about it.
Then I had to do something with my hands and noticed this free as an audiobook on Youtube (also available as a free kindle download) so I started listening.
This book is not a survey of prayers in the bible, or an exposition of on the theology of prayer, it is simply what I said in the first sentence, an short (less than 35k words) exhortation pray more.
First the author makes the argument that prayer is something which takes the entire body (I don’t think Bounds proves his point, though there are times and places for this, I tend to pray in a stream when I am praying well.) The rest of the book moves through things all Christians are in agreement with and then Bounds with some sparse quotes from church leaders & scripture, and some strong words convinces you, challenges you, and dares you, have you prayed about this thing?
Have you prayed about having more Humility? (2) Being more devoted to God (3) Have you been thankful? (4) Are you in trouble? (5) Are you going through tribulation? (6)
Here the book took a turn. Something of the nature of the book changed or me listening to the book and I had to stop listening and start reading. So I switched to the kindle version and kept reading. Prayer and God’s Work (7) focuses on sanctification, then there is being consecrated for God (8), more on being consecrated (9), compassion (10), prayer in groups (11) prayer for everyone (12), and Prayer and missions (13).
By far my favorite chapter was number 7, “Prayer and God’s Work”.
I didn’t really want to like this book, especially when I realized what it really was like but by the end I was looking forward to getting into it when I finished my daily goals in other readings. Like with memorizing and meditation on the God’s word, I tend to enjoy the theology more, but get more utility and from the exhortation. At times, Bounds can seem somewhat circular, I pray because of my love and devotion for God and my devotion is born of prayer. But any believer who has spent time intimately with God will have often had their mind go in such loops.
I’ll probably read it again at some point down the line ...
January 14, 2023
While this book on prayer is based largely but not entirely on the Bible's teachings, I struggled with the tone that comes across here and there. Made me think of "holier than thou" kind of attitude. It's probably my preference to be taught more than to have things being preached "at" me; didn't enjoy the author thinking that most church leaders today are lacking in many areas. I agree that many are lacking, that shouldn't be so underlined throughout a book that should teach us "how we ought to pray". It's practical and if you can pass the author's style, you may quite enjoy it. Oh yes, you may expect to be judged if you go to the opera and so on.
I specifically liked the last part of the book about missions. Here's a quote from the book in relation to it: "They who truly pray will be moved to give. Praying creates the giving spirit. The praying ones will be giving liberally and self-denyingly. He who enters his closet to God will also open his purse to God but perfunctory, grudging assesment giving kills the very spirit of prayer."
I specifically liked the last part of the book about missions. Here's a quote from the book in relation to it: "They who truly pray will be moved to give. Praying creates the giving spirit. The praying ones will be giving liberally and self-denyingly. He who enters his closet to God will also open his purse to God but perfunctory, grudging assesment giving kills the very spirit of prayer."
November 16, 2020
This was the first time I've read E.M. Bounds. That might disappoint some of my friends since no less than a lot of them recommended Bound's work on prayer. With all the hype, I was expecting somewhat of a letdown. I was pleasantly proven wrong.
This pairs well with Rushdoony and Andrew Sandlin on prayer.
This pairs well with Rushdoony and Andrew Sandlin on prayer.
August 24, 2021
Relevant today as it was when it was written
It's hard to believe this was written in the 19th Century. The subjects are so relevant today and so relatable. A must for every Christian who wants to pray more and who doubts that the power of prayer is only for gifted people. A very encouraging read.
It's hard to believe this was written in the 19th Century. The subjects are so relevant today and so relatable. A must for every Christian who wants to pray more and who doubts that the power of prayer is only for gifted people. A very encouraging read.
March 24, 2025
The book challenged and rebuked my attitude towards prayer. The writer used the scripture to remind readers that prayer should not be a chore but something we look forward to because it allows us to be intimate with God.
I recommend this book for anyone who has been getting cold and apathetic towards the things of God.
I recommend this book for anyone who has been getting cold and apathetic towards the things of God.
August 6, 2022
Modern Version of a Classic
This is an updated version of a classic. Bounds was a great man of prayer, and wrote many books on prayer. This book tries to use modern language. I really don't thin that was necessary. Nevertheless this book was helpful.
This is an updated version of a classic. Bounds was a great man of prayer, and wrote many books on prayer. This book tries to use modern language. I really don't thin that was necessary. Nevertheless this book was helpful.
September 21, 2024
This is a very simple look at what we should be looking for and what we should be doing in our prayer life. I listened to in on text to voice and that worked very well. It's an easy read and good way to get our lives in line with what God wants.
January 18, 2025
Powerful call to Christian’s to elevate their prayer lofe and take the gift of prayer in reverence when communicating with God. Great book if you are wanting to grow your prayer life and become more consistent and humble in your prayers.
June 23, 2025
Powerful message, well delivered.
Many powerful and foundational truths are here laid out in a most sincere and moving manner. Any Christian would do well to give this a prayerful and careful reading.
Many powerful and foundational truths are here laid out in a most sincere and moving manner. Any Christian would do well to give this a prayerful and careful reading.
October 26, 2020
the book interconnected life in prayer with fruit of spirit. how should a character of man with prayer's life. not that practical, but make us evaluate our life.
June 7, 2021
One of the best writers on prayer I have read thus far.
August 22, 2021
While the older language style may be less appealing to some, the content is good and remains true.
December 21, 2021
This was a good book on prayer.
A bit more on how to prepare yourself for prayer, rather than exactly how to pray or what to pray about though (that is more of what I was looking for.
4.3/5
A bit more on how to prepare yourself for prayer, rather than exactly how to pray or what to pray about though (that is more of what I was looking for.
4.3/5
March 7, 2022
Though this book on prayer is shorter than the previous books in this series, to me it was very powerful. I really do recommend this one for anyone studying prayer.
April 13, 2023
A timeless classic.
February 2, 2024
used audio version. Great book on pray.
November 7, 2024
Man - this book is packed full of great wisdom and encouragement to pray. If you are not praying, if you are praying, or if you are interested in prayer - I recommend this book.
February 13, 2025
I read the audiobook edition, which is not listed on Goodreads.
July 18, 2025
Deep Book of Prayer
Going to read it again and again and you should too if you’re interested in learning how to humble yourself and pray better than you have prayed before
Going to read it again and again and you should too if you’re interested in learning how to humble yourself and pray better than you have prayed before
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews