And the Lord turned the captivity of Job when he prayed for his friends. (Job 42: 10)

Prayer can be divided into two main categories – prayer for self and prayer for others, also known as intercessory prayer. James tells us in his epistle that the “fervent prayer of a righteous person avails much.” After all, our job as Disciples of Christ is prayer.

All too often our prayers for self are plaintive, self-centered and can be sometimes viewed as “whiny.” This is never found in the prayers of Jesus. When Christ prayed to His Parent, He was seeking only God’s will or they were prayers on behalf of those around Him.

If you feel that your prayers are not being heard or answered, perhaps it’s time to take a close look at how they are formulated. Do you want God to “fix” things for you? Do you want God to drop new high-tech toys in your lap? After all, Jesus clearly said, “Ask and you shall receive.” I think it is what we ask for that sometimes blocks our communication with God. Jesus never asked for anything personal other than God’s will. Even in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus carefully stated, “Not my will, but Your will…”

I have found that when I lift up others, whether for healing or guidance or peace in their lives, the same thing I pray for on behalf of others comes to me. When others are placed first and uplifted, God bestows showers of blessings on the intercessor.

Holy God of Blessings, may we forget self long enough to lift our brothers and sisters up to You. Heal them and bless them that we, too, might find favor in Your sight.