Our Prayers Change Us

It has been nearly two years since my friend was released from the hospital following the procedure mentioned in my devotional piece, and it is with sadness that I must report that he has since passed away. However, it is with joy that I report that he enjoyed many pleasant meals and outings with family and friends after leaving the hospital, and that he died totally at peace in his own home with family present. He was a man of strong faith who accepted the promise of salvation.

He was famously frugal, and although he never gambled, he was once asked, “What is the first thing you would do if you won the lottery?” His reply was, “I’d count it.”

While on vacation, he attempted to rent a moving truck to get around, as it was considerably less expensive than a rental car. His wife stopped him. How could you not miss a man with such innovative ideas? 

The power of prayer is real, and although our petitions may not always change the course of events, they can change us by drawing us into a closer relationship with the Lord as we realize “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding” (Phil. 4:7, NRSVUE).