Prayer more than casual comment
In conversation or online, we may hear of a difficult situation that pulls on our heartstrings. Maybe someone was injured, someone died, found themselves in tragic circumstances, or are dealing with a serious illness or surgery. Maybe someone lost a beloved pet. Whatever the situation, our response might be, “I’ll pray for you.” or “I’ll pray about this.”
Such comments may comfort the other person in that moment, especially those who believe in prayer, who know it lifts a burden and know that God answers prayer. In the moment, for some of us, it is easy to say the “right” thing and offer to pray.
The problem isn’t a promise to pray. That is all well and good. Often the best, sometimes the only, thing we can do in a bad situation is pray. Especially if the other person lives far away. Those nearby we can offer a hand, a hug, bring a meal or shop for groceries or whatever is needed at that time. For those further away, we can always send an appropriate card or gift such as flowers to brighten up a home or hospital room. But that isn't the same as committing to pray.
The problem comes in when we use “I’ll pray” as a throwaway comment we don’t mean or we mean, but quickly forget we said anything at all. We may even forget the need altogether. We promise to pray, but that promise is lost in our own busy lives. Even those who pride themselves on keeping promises may not connect this phrase as something of value or of importance
But prayer really does matter. Prayer can change attitudes, situations, and circumstances. Prayer should never be a throwaway phrase or used simply to ease a moment when a person is uncomfortable. If you do not intend to pray, don’t make such a promise. Instead, say something like, “I wish the best.” or something else that does not include a promise.
We may take such promises lightly, but God does not. He takes even promises from kids seriously. Everyone deals with difficult circumstances at one time or another. We all need persons who lift us up in prayer. We don’t need platitudes that mean nothing.
When others suffer, be careful what you say. If you do not intend to pray, please don’t promise to do so. If you make the promise, follow through. Pray and pray some more. Care enough to keep your promise to pray. God works through our caring hearts and prayer. Prayer makes a difference in our attitudes and in the situation. Pray and see what God will do. Become a person who cares enough to pray.
While the answer may not always be what we want, peace is in knowing God loves and listens and brings comfort and care even in the most dire of circumstances. Real prayer is releasing the burden, focusing on what we can help and letting God do the rest. Keep promises. Pray when promised and let God be God in the situation.
(c) 2024 Carolyn R Scheidies
Published column in Kearney Hub 2/29/2024
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