”Can I pray for you,” is a simple offer that can bring tremendous comfort, so why is it so hard for me to offer it to others? Praying in front of an entire group is no problem, but offering in a vulnerable moment doesn’t cross my mind. I need to do better.

Recently, a friend sat with me as I shared a very personal lament. I was emotionally hurt. She listened to me share the situation, my grief and disbelief. Before she left she said, “Can I pray for you?” It was exactly what I needed in that moment.

Prayer in situations like this is a powerful moment of connection. I felt seen. I felt heard. It offered hope and peace in addition to connecting us to the One who holds it all. It opened the door for healing to begin.

Laments are sorrowful. They can bring anger and frustration to the surface. It is in the midst of that, that healing and restoration can begin through prayer. It involves giving voice to difficult emotions, making space for grief, and trusting God’s promises.

Can I pray for you?

^9-11 So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover’s life, circumspect and exemplary, a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus Christ attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:9-11 MSG).

So much comfort and healing in a simple offer. I can do better at bringing God into the heart of other’s laments by offering to pray in the moment. How about you? Do you make the offer to pray? Share your experience here and breathe life and bring hope to others.