My broccoli and cheese soup and hibiscus water were great, but my heart was heavy. Lack of sleep, worry, and failure was my focus. I had struggled to pray earlier that morning, but I was too weary. I desperately needed to talk to a friend.
My phone rang. I sighed in relief because my friend Nancy would listen and pray.
Mom had fallen, so we’d visited the ER. I hadn’t taken my grandchildren to church, but instead called their mom to pick them up. Should I have let my niece take my mom to the ER and should I have taken my grandchildren to church? Was I a failure as a caregiver and Nana? As I released my emotional and spiritual load to my trusted friend, I wept. Nancy had already interceded for me that morning. She listened and read the perfect scripture. And when we finished our conversation, she prayed some more. Within an hour peace flooded my soul and I took a nap.
We find a biblical account in Acts chapter nine concerning the power of prayer. The Apostle Peter traveled to Lydda. In the nearby town of Joppa, the disciple Tabitha, or Dorcas, had become sick and died. Dorcas had ministered to many through her good words and deeds. Her grieving friends sent for Peter.
Peter entered the upper chamber to see Dorcas’s friends weeping and showing the coats and garments she had made. Peter put them out and prayed. As he said, “Tabitha, arise,” she opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up. Peter took her hand, lifted her, called the saints, and presented her alive! The news of this miracle spread throughout Joppa and many believed.
My praying friend Nancy interceded for me when I was an emotional mess over my mother and grandchildren. Peter prayed for Dorcas when her friends were weeping over her death. Jesus resurrected both our situations so that others might believe.
My need was petty in comparison to the death of Dorcas, nevertheless I needed prayer. Thank God for praying friends who intercede for us when we are too distraught to pray.
Praying always, with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
Ephesians 6:18
Your need wasn’t petty, Lisa. It was important to God and important to your friend. I’m so glad you have a loving friend to turn to–and Jesus, who is the most loving friend we can have. You’re such a wonderful example of faith for us, Lisa. You inspire and encourage by your dedication to your family.
Katherine, Thank you for your words of encouragment and your continual weekly comments. You’re a big blessing to me and I’m sure to many others.
I’m a praying friend of yours from afar
Angela, thank you for your much needed prayers!
Our needs are never petty to God. Whatever your need, cry out to Him and He will answer.
I’m certainly thankful God always cares and hears our prayers. No matter how small our needs must look to Almighty God He listens and answers. This is reason to keep crying out to Him! Candyce, thanks for commenting.