It works both ways

Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. (1 John 5:14 NKJV)

Life is filled with difficulties and challenges, and at one time or another we all find ourselves in some particularly desperate situation. These desperate situations cause us to turn to God for help, but that’s often when we feel that our own prayers are inadequate. Sometimes that’s because we’re out of practice, sometimes it’s because we think we don’t have as much faith as we need, sometimes it’s because we feel undeserving of God’s help, and sometimes we fear that even our most heartfelt prayers will fall short. It’s at times like that when we most appreciate the love, concern, and prayers of others.

And it works both ways. Being there for others in their times of need and putting our love and concern into action by praying for them are two of the truest and most effective ways we can live the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

Praying for others is not only the right thing to do, it’s also the smart thing. Nothing else we can do for another costs so little or goes so far as prayer. Of course, when we pray, God may show us that there is something more we can do to help resolve the situation, but our first response to any problem should be to pray.

Let’s remember that the next time a loved one or neighbor needs our prayers and, as Jesus taught, our neighbor is anyone who needs our help. [1]

Give me faith, Lord, and let me help others find it. - Leo Tolstoy

[1] Activated The Best Gift