Praying for Others

I sometimes have trouble when praying for others. The direct way is the usual way I pray - “Please, God, make her well,” or “Please, Lord, take away his burden.” Lately, the past few months, I have realized that it might not be in God’s plan for that burden to be removed from my friend or loved one. Even in my own life, looking back, if a certain burden has been removed, then circumstances would not have unfolded so that something better occurred.

This means I must be careful when I ask for God’s favors. These days, I ask God to look at the person’s suffering, or anxiety, worry, or pain, and have compassion. I ask him to consider my prayer, if it is in his plan. And if it is not, I ask him for strength for that person, and patience, until whatever must happen, happens. I also ask for help for myself. I pray that he guides me and whispers to me, letting me know whatever I can do to make it easier on my friend or loved one.

It’s not easy. It’s much easier to tell God what I want and expect him to get it or do it. So I don’t want to give the impression that I always pray the wise way. That’s far from what happens. But I’m praying that way more often. I am happy to make a little progress now and then.

Dear Lord, continue to guide me, please, in my prayer life, especially when I pray for others, that I might not be impatient or demanding, but rather understanding and helpful.