SOMEONE PRAYED

Sleep evaded me. It paraded with worries, concerns, regrets, fears, and even doubts across my mind. They were like floats in a parade interspersed with marching bands. The more I chased sleep, the more devastated and tired I felt—too tired to sleep, too fearful to close my eyes. Whispers in the darkness can be like a megaphone from hell. They choreograph a dance of fear and depression while one looks for, anticipates, and longs for the sunrise.  

The sun rises, and I push my weary body to look out the window. A sparrow hops among the freshly mowed grass, while a bright red cardinal struts across the fence. It is morning, I am tired, but I am not defeated. Someone prayed.

I wonder how often what I just described is experienced in the homes of friends, family, and neighbors. I was up at 2:30 this morning battling some fear and anxiety. Who else is up with me? Who needs my prayers? The Spirit brought to mind the names of friends with cancer, and I prayed. A little later, I had a cup of coffee and went back to sleep. Maybe I was the Someone for others.

The Bible is filled with examples of God’s response to prayer—the prayers of Abraham, Moses, Joshua, Caleb, Elijah, Joseph, and many others. The church prayed, and Peter walked out of prison. The disciples prayed and saw healings and deliverance. Prayer is easier to talk about than to do. More words are inked about prayer than spoken in prayer. Prayer has become no better than good thoughts and pleasant hopes in too many places and too many hearts.

I am convinced that the Spirit looks for men and women to pray, for that Someone. You may be the Someone that is needed to pray today or tonight. I know many prayers have gone up for me in my lifetime. May I be a good steward of those prayers and also be the Someone to pray for others.

Running the race,

Dr. James D. Allen

https://www.youtube.com/@overflowinghope180