ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER
We may ask, “can I pray for you?” We may even sound sincere.
The problem with our listening skills. We sometimes never hear.
We’re so much in a hurry. We think we’re being nice,
But if it meant you’d help someone, five minutes would suffice.
It doesn’t take that long to ask if things are going well.
They may be really suffering – going through their private hell.
It’s up to us to give them hope – a friend to lean upon.
Someone to tell them they are loved, by God’s own precious Son.
So, when you ask “how are you?” prepare to stay a while
And don’t forget to listen and greet them with a smile.
Your love and understanding will go the extra mile
So show you really care for them. Through every single trial.
When we greet someone and say, “How are you,” or “Can I pray for you.” plan on sticking around for a while, because that person just might have a lot to say. So often we ask those questions and then go on our merry way, without another thought. Take the time to wait for their answer. Listen. Don’t leave them hanging. Our communications with each other must be sincere. but a simple question can often the floodgates of anxiety for some. Be ready to offer to pray with them or for them. Don’t just say the words. Follow through. Your words could make or break another person’s spirit if left unattended, but they could be just the right thing to cement your relationship and give hope to another person.
atimetoshare.me 
How can we pray for you as you morn Paul’s homecoming?
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Thank you for asking. So far things are going well. I guess the full effect has not yet hit me. Maybe pray for strength and patience to get through all the immediate details. I am not a computer whiz but am muddling through that right now. I’m blessed to have amazing children and grandchildren and a wonderful support from my church family. How can I pray for you today?
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I am having cardiac issues myself. I’m having a procdure done Wednesday to determine if I can have a stent installed in one of my arteries.
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I will pray for a successful procedure and a speedy recovery. God keep Don safe during upcoming heart procedure and grant him a quick restoration to good health. Amen🙏🏻
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I am still praying for you, and you are right. When you ask how you can pray for them, you might get an ear full. But in loving your neighbor, the time spent with them is important time, and the prayers afterwards are important also.
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Love this! As the facilitator of my church’s chronic illness support group, I often tell my group members is that people will ask how you’re doing without being prepared for an honest answer. And sometimes they will admonish you if you give them an honest assessment of how you’re doing. I don’t know why people, even Christians, have this notion that one is supposed to always offer an unrealistic picture of how you’re doing.
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💞❣️Praying for you always, Mama K. Much love.
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