In today's world, it is sometimes hard to outwardly express our religion. For me specifically, this results in awkward conversations about prayer. I often want to ask people if I can pray for them, but don't want to come across as "too Christian." There's always the concern that people will look at me differently, act differently around me and disregard my opinions. I can understand that because of how some Christians act. However, not everyone believes the same things, and not everyone practices their faith in the same ways. God calls me to be bold, and I plan to be.
"For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control." -- 2 Timothy 1:6-7 ESV
Another problem I run into is that people think that prayers are just words. When someone says, "My prayers are with you," or, "I'll be praying," people actually get annoyed, as if they think that the person is offering empty promises. People of any and all religions pray in some way, shape or form because we all believe that prayers are not just helpful but necessary. Discrediting those statements to the person who made them because you may not be a person of faith is just plain rude.
"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us." -- 1 John 5:14 NIV
This article focuses on my faith, which is Christianity, and I am not discrediting prayer from others. I am speaking purely from my own experiences.
When I ask if I can pray for you, I am not asking if you will accept Jesus Christ as your Savior. I am not asking you to come to church with me. I am not asking you to even believe in God. When I ask if I can pray for you, I'm giving you a hug. I'm letting you know that I am there for you. I'm asking if you're OK. I'm telling you that regardless of what's going on in your life, God loves you and I love you.
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." -- Philippians 4:6-7 NIV
If I ask you if I can pray for you and that makes you uncomfortable, just say, "I'm OK, but thank you." I'll understand. I won't force anything on you, and I won't love you any less. There's no need for scorn, glares or disdain. I'm telling you that I care about you. For me, prayer is by no means the least I can do for you. It is the most.
"Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." -- Mark 11:24 NIV
