“Sir, do you mind if I mention something that I’ve noticed about you?”

He simply nodded.

“You don’t say much when you come in. Your diabetes is uncontrolled. Your blood pressure is always elevated. You don’t take your medicines. You only nod whenever I make suggestions. You’re very quiet and you don’t seem interested in anything. You walk around with a weight on your shoulders.”

He quickly broke eye contact.

I cleared my throat, concerned and anxious about what I was going to say next.

“Are you OK? I mean…like really OK? Is there something bothering you? Are you angry, upset…”

And then it came.

Streams of tears rolled down both cheeks. He sniffled. He wiped his tears on the edge of his sleeve. He crossed his arms and leaned back against the chair.

“Things are hard right now.” He paused and continue to stare into the corner of the room.

“Is there anything I can do to help?”

“Unless you can somehow get my more money and fix all my problems, no.”

“Well, I can’t do that but I do hope things get better.” I patted his hand before escorting him out of the room.

He nodded.

Over time, the patient began coming in smiling and lifting his head up higher with each visit. Things did get better for him and he updated me at each time we met.

Likewise, his blood pressure and diabetes improved as well.

I didn’t do much for him. I just listened. The best thing I could do for him was pray for him. I didn’t tell him I was praying for him. I simply did.

A lot of people think Christianity and science are separate but I disagree.

I pray for my patients often and this particular patient was no different.

When you have difficulties in life, don’t hesitate to confide in someone to pray for you. We’re not made to be alone or to face these difficulties on our own.

If you’re struggling with your health, ask someone to pray for you or with you. Maybe even consider asking your medical provider.

In the book of Matthew, Jesus tells us, “When two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”

When you are weak, ask someone to pray for your strength. When you are sad, ask someone to pray for peace.

If you need prayers, I can be your prayer warrior. Just send me a prayer request.