Sincere friendship towards God, in all who believe him to be properly an intelligent, willing being, does most apparently, directly, and strongly incline to prayer; and it no less disposes the heart strongly to desire to have our infinitely glorious.

In this quote, Jonathan Edwards discusses the deep connection between sincere friendship towards God and the act of prayer. He suggests that for those who truly believe in God as an intelligent, willing being, this friendship naturally leads to a desire for prayer. The idea is that when one feels a genuine bond with God, it compels them to seek communication through prayer, as a way of strengthening their relationship and expressing their desires and needs. This heartfelt connection with God, according to Edwards, leads individuals to approach God not out of obligation, but out of a genuine desire to commune with the Divine.

Edwards also touches on the transformative power of sincere friendship with God, asserting that it makes one more inclined to desire a deeper understanding of God’s glory. The quote implies that as a person’s connection with God grows stronger, their heart becomes more open to acknowledging the infinite greatness of God and the importance of seeking His presence through prayer. This yearning is not just for personal benefit, but to align with God’s infinite glory.

The origin of this quote is rooted in Edwards’ theological and philosophical writings during the First Great Awakening in the 18th century. Edwards, a prominent American preacher and theologian, was known for his strong emphasis on spiritual revival, personal piety, and the need for a deep, personal relationship with God. This quote reflects his belief that true faith and friendship with God lead naturally to prayer and a strong desire for spiritual growth and understanding.

Ultimately, Edwards’ quote serves as a reminder that a genuine friendship with God goes beyond formal acts of worship. It encourages believers to foster a relationship with God that is rooted in desire and intimacy, which naturally leads to prayer and a longing to experience God’s glory. It suggests that this friendship with God not only enhances personal faith but also draws the believer closer to divine understanding.