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Robber of the cruel streetsThe prayerful life of George MullerTransformed by prayerROBBER OF THE CRUEL STREETS In March 1898, George Muller’s Daily Telegraph obituary memorably noted that he’d robbed the cruel streets of thousands of victimsâ through the orphanages he had established, built and run on the foundation of prayer. Clive Langmead’s beautifully presented book retells that story, its chapter headings summarising Muller’s remarkable life as Robber, Captive, Freeman, Foreigner, Preacher, Pastor, Father, Philanthropist, Builder, Director, Mentor and Statesman. The book feels much shorter than its 174 pages, being littered with pictures and photographs — some historical, many taken from an award winning drama documentary which the book accompanies. The narrative is colourful and very easy reading, written in an informal, racyâ style which is often arresting. And sometimes irritating. (With lots of such short afterthought sentences!) Unusually, each chapter ends with several reflections on ‘George Muller’s life of prayerâ which are then applied for our own prayer life’. Thus Langmead commendably encourages readers not only to discover and admire Muller, but to learn spiritual lessons from his life. Positively, the book inspiringly depicts the reality of God at work in life, and in lives. It also presents a challenging portrait of Muller’s concern for God’s glory, and of his faith, love and spiritual audacity (by and large, without idolising him). Negatively, Langmead’s (or is it Muller’s?) offhand comment that God ‘knows who will respond and in a sense makes’ that his will seems to grate with Muller’s confidence in a sovereign, prayer-answering, heart-moving God. The book, and indeed Muller’s life, inevitably raises questions as to whether we should expect the same experience as he did, particularly his sixth sense as to God’s will for specific situations (did he ever get this wrong? No counter-examples are given). Nevertheless, there is much benefit to be had from pondering Muller’s principles, even for those who query some of the details on guidance, publicising financial need, etc. The style and glossy quality make this an ideal gift, even for those who are not big readers, and maybe also for non-Christians (the book does give something of the gospel message, and a gentle personal challenge, though in other places it assumes its readers are believers). Alternatively the content and short chapters could make this a helpful addition to your own personal Bible reading and prayer over, say, a fortnight. Pray that the same Lord who transformed Muller’s life, might use his story to transform yours! Phil Heaps, © Evangelicals Now - April 2007 |