Over the last few days I have been reading a book by D.L. Moody called Prevailing Prayer. This short book "examines nine elements that are essential to prevailing prayer." I have to admit...most of the chapters are predictable. He writes about things I have heard about my whole life concerning prayer. As I approached the book, I did not expect to learn much new information, but actually each chapter has exposed many lacking areas in my own prayer life. The chapter I read today was entitled "Restitution." As I began to read each word, God used the author to remind me that He will not hear my prayer if there is an unresolved circumstance in my life. Quoting from page 44, "We may sing our hymns and psalms, and offer prayers, but they are abomination to God unless we are willing to be thoroughly straightforward in our daily life." He continues on page 46, "If we have taken anything from any man, if we have in any way defrauded a man, let us not only confess it, but do all we can to make restitution. If we have misrepresented anyone - if we have started some slander, or some false report about him - let us do all in our power to undo the wrong." This chapter reminds me of Jesus' words in the sermon on the mount: "If you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift" (Matthew 5:23-24). Think about it.