Praying for a stranger

The conversation was small at first. We talked about the weather, what we did for a living, and life in the big city. We had met by chance and I thought shortly I would be on my way continuing with my errands. I was wrong. Before I knew it, he was telling me his life story and what was in his heart. He was in pain and he talked freely. With tears rolling down his face he shared with me, a stranger to him, the emotional suffering he had been going through for the past year. I listened attentively wondering what could I do to help. I asked questions and we talked for longer than we both probably expected at first. I finally asked him what his thoughts on God were. With so much stress in his life, this gentleman was in desperate need of Christ. I think my question caught him by surprise. Stuttering his words, he just said he didn’t go to church. I told Him I believed God could help the pain in his heart and that I would be praying for him. We continued talking and after a while we decided it was time to part ways. Of everything we said during our conversation, he made sure to thank me for praying for him.

I left wondering if I would ever meet that man again. Unlikely. This city is so big, with so many people. The chances of both being in the same place at the same time again were slim, but I decided to pray for him. I couldn’t even remember his name, but God and I talked about him often. I asked God to give that man strength, comfort, and the amazing peace that changes everything. I didn’t know if I would ever see the results of my prayers, but it wasn’t about me anyway. One of God’s kids was in pain and needed Him desperately.

I must shout to the world that my God is an amazing God! In His wisdom and love, He allowed me to get a glimpse of His work in this man’s life. Unexpectedly I saw him again. He recognized me and gave me the biggest smile I have ever seen! The conversation was short, but enough for me to see God at work. There was joy in the man’s face. He was happier and at peace. The outlook on life wasn’t as gloomy as when we had previously met. He said he had decided to be more positive and take one day at a time. We ended the conversation with him saying, “I feel great!”

The joy in my heart was so big I think I had a smile on my face the rest of the day. I was so happy for my new friend. What amazed me even more, and this happens so often, is that his life hadn’t changed much. In fact he still had all the same problems he’s been having, but his attitude and outlook in life had changed. Instead of feeling helpless and discouraged, he felt strong and had a clear mind to make the important decisions he needed to make. He had hope!

I thanked God for His amazing work in this person’s life and for the blessing of seeing the transformation. How incredible! I may not see this gentleman again, but I know God is taking care of him. Oh the power of prayer. What an amazing tool of courage and strength God has graciously given to us. It solves everything. Even if it doesn't change our circumstances, it always changes our hearts and that's what truly matters.

"The Lord is near to the brokenhearted  

and saves the crushed in spirit." 

Psalm 34:18

"Then Jesus said, 'Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.'"

Matthew 11:28