“Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” James 5:16

It was just 6 simple words…but those words absolutely changed my day.
 
It’s been challenging lately with the shutdown and not able to do/go where I want. And now that kids have started school, I’ve been working from home some to help with that. A particular day last week seemed to be overwhelming me-I was stressed and behind and was really feeling overwhelmed. And then my phone dinged. It was a message from a friend of mine-asking how my Dad was doing after a recent fall. We chatted for a minute, and then he said these words: “How can I pray for you?”
 
A simple question.
 
But with a life-altering application.
 
The privilege of praying FOR our friends and neighbors is one, I feel many Christ-followers have missed! It’s not a drudgery or a “job”…it’s a JOY! But the simple act of ASKING that question, did so much to lift my Spirits! Is there someone around YOU for which you could pray? Is there someone around YOU that needs to hear this question?
 
Ask this question! Ask it a lot! And then ask it some more! When you DO, it alters how YOU approach your life! And it benefits the recipient! It’s a true WIN-WIN situation! When they give you things to pray for…DO IT! Don’t just “Say” you’ll pray for them…really, actually, honestly…PRAY FOR THEM!

Then, when someone asks it of you…ANSWER THEM! Be specific! Be transparent! Share what struggles are stressing you the most right now! Be honest about anxiety or fear or frustrations that have you rattled. The freedom of releasing a burden to the avenue of prayer is truly sweet!
 
So here’s your challenge: Ask that question of five people this week! Then actually pray for those five people! You’ll be glad you did!
 
Shalom-May His Peace Be Upon Your Home and Family!  
Don