# Book II: On Occasional Subjects explained — Olney Hymns

> Chapter companion for Olney Hymns by John Newton.

## What happens

This chapter contains a collection of hymns and poems on various occasional subjects, including reflections on the wilderness journey of Israel, communion with saints in glory, the power and importance of prayer, the light and glory of Scripture, the changing seasons, and the incarnation of Christ. The poems emphasize God's providence, the believer's dependence on Him, the efficacy of prayer, and the hope of eternal life.

## Themes in this chapter

### Prayer and Dependence on God

The chapter extensively explores the power and necessity of prayer, with examples from Moses, Hezekiah, Peter, and Elijah, and encourages believers to rely on God through prayer.

### Divine Providence and Guidance

God's provision for Israel in the wilderness and His continued care for believers are highlighted, emphasizing His guidance and sustenance.

### Hope of Heaven and Eternal Life

The poems speak of a rest in view, communion with saints in glory, and the assurance of eternal life through Christ.

## Character check-ins

### Jesus Christ

Referred to as the bread of life, the Saviour, Emmanuel, and the one who died for sinners.

### God

Described as the provider in the wilderness, the one who answers prayer, and the source of all blessings.

### Moses

Mentioned in the context of prayer and the battle against Amalek, where his upheld hands brought victory.

### Hezekiah

Cited as an example of prayer's power, both in subduing Assyria and in having his life renewed.

### Peter

Mentioned as being delivered from prison through prayer.

### Elijah

Referenced for his prayer that ended a three-year drought.

## Key lines

> Pray’r climbs the ladder Jacob saw

Prayer ascends to heaven just as Jacob's ladder connected earth to heaven.

_This line references Jacob's ladder vision, symbolizing the connection between earth and heaven through prayer._

> While Moses stood with arms spread wide, Success was found on Isr’el’s side; But when through weariness they fail’d, That moment Amalek prevail’d.

When Moses kept his hands raised in prayer, Israel prevailed; when he lowered them, Amalek gained the advantage.

_This illustrates the power of intercessory prayer and the need for persistence._

> Hezekiah on his knees Proud Assyria’s host subdued; And, when smitten with disease, Had his life by pray’r renew’d.

Hezekiah's prayer brought victory over Assyria and healing from illness.

_Hezekiah is cited as an example of prayer's effectiveness in both national and personal crises._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters/book-ii-on-occasional-subjects
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/olney_hymns_se/chapters