Lent Day 9, Thursday, Feb 25, 2021

“Pray for One”

“How can I help?” I’ve asked that question, either aloud or to myself, many times since the beginning of the pandemic. I used to be able to visit people and offer other kinds of assistance, but that kind of help has gone by the wayside. I’m left with little that I can do… except pray.

Does it help to pray for someone? Good question. Let’s try to answer with an illustration: Pretend that you were having a really bad day today. If you discovered that someone was praying for you the entire day, how would it make you feel? Would it give you any confidence during your troubled time? What about after the troubling situation? Would you be able to look back and determine if prayer helped somehow?

Still not convinced? Try another situation. Suppose that you have a wonderful day today. Then, pretend that you awaken tomorrow to discover that someone had prayed for you for the entire day. How would you feel? How would it change your perspective on prayer?

Today’s challenge is easy… sort of. After reading this devotion, think of someone that you’d like to pray for today. Then, pray for them the entire day (but don’t tell them!). Who will it be? Do you have someone in mind? If not, God may be bringing you an idea at this very moment. Who needs your prayers? Friend or foe, neighbor or stranger, let’s not discount who God may be calling into your heart, mind, and Spirit.

Does prayer make a difference? Who knows? Maybe someone will be praying for you today and you’ll be able to answer the question for yourself!

“Never stop praying, especially for others. Always pray by the power of the Spirit. Stay alert and keep praying for God’s people.” (Ephesians 6:18, CEB).