'The power of religion and godliness lives, thrives, or dies, as closet prayer lives, thrives, or dies.' This was the deeply held conviction of Thomas Brooks, the author of this book. As a pastor who knew his people well, he feared that many Christians do not understand the 'necessity, excellency, and usefulness' of private prayer, and that may live in 'too great a neglect of this indispensable duty.' Focussing on our Lord's words about 'closet-prayer' in Matthew 6:6, Brooks gives us a masterful treatment of a vitally important aspect of Christian living. His aim is intensely practical; 'to preserve and keep up the power of religion and godliness both in men's houses, hearts, and lives.'