The matter of prayer is suggested by the Holy Ghost…The direction of the Holy Ghost is necessary, that we may not a scorpion instead of a fish, and a stone instead of bread (Rom 8:27)…The Holy Ghost teaches us to ask not only for what is lawful, but what is expedient for us, so that the will of God may have priority over our inclinations.
We come to him with affection…with confidence and with reverence. [Consider] the privileges of the saints. God is their Father, willing to hear prayers; Christ is their advocate, willing to present their requests in count; and the Spirit is a Notary to indite and draw up their requests for them. Oh, what an encouragement we have to go to the Throne of Grace.
–Thomas Manton “The Epistle of Jude.”