The Benefits of Praying with a Friend
Praying for a friend meets an obligation; praying with a friend meets a bundle of needs.
Solitary prayer also has its benefits, and there is no judgment for those who prefer not to share their prayers. Still, those who share will experience an energizing, supportive fellowship with benefits that inspire gratitude.
Praying with a friend may happen in situations like the following:
- In a general prayer session, the leader requests that participants pray in groups of two; two friends find each other.
- One friend needs an urgent solution for a pending problem and calls on a friend to join in prayer. They may pray just once, or they may decide to meet for prayer until the problem is solved.
- Two people who interact with each other feel a mutual kinship. They begin to trust each other by sharing their personal issues. They both believe in the power of prayer, and they intentionally become prayer partners. They decide to pray together regularly—daily, weekly or whatever schedule they set.
Prayer can be effective in all three of the scenarios above, but this article is primarily concerned with the third one, which is ideal for individuals looking for support in their pursuit of godly living.
Six Important Benefits for Friends who Pray Together Regularly
(1) Connectedness
| (2) Cooperation
| (3) Compassion
|
|---|---|---|
(4) Confidence
| (5) Commitment
| (6) Celebration
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(1) Connectedness
Love each other with genuine affection, and . . . keep on praying. - Romans 12: 10-12 (NLT)
Praying with a friend—really praying as opposed to reciting a prayer—creates a three-way connectedness. While one exposes his innermost feelings to God, the other listens in. Simultaneously, they become vulnerable in their relationship with God and with each other. (Good reason for spouses to pray together).
That vulnerability is not something to be afraid of; it is something to be embraced between real friends. It is supported by confidentiality—the assurance that whatever they learn about each other will remain private between them.
Some people turn to psychologists only because they have no friends with whom to share their personal struggles. Friends who meet and talk to God on each other’s behalf have a spiritual, social and emotional advantage.
(2) Cooperation
If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. Matthew 18: 19 (NLT)
Anything has to be interpreted within godly confines: “The thing asked must be reasonable, good in itself, expedient for the petitioner” and “the desire will be granted in some form, though, perhaps, not in the way or at the time expected.”*
The prayer request is more likely to be appropriate when two people consult, than if made by one lonely person in a state of grief or anxiety. The levelheadedness of one compensates for the shortsightedness of the other. Also in expectation of God’s answer, the impatience of one is comforted by the patience of another.
Praying with a friend provides the kind of cooperation and unity which affects both the wholesomeness of the request and the acceptance of the answer.
(3) Compassion
Pray for each other so that you may be healed. James 5: 16 (NLT)
Compassion for others distracts one from self-pity. It is difficult to think of a scenario better than praying with a friend which encourages an individual to forget about himself. While he is focusing on someone else’s need, he does not interfere with God’s intervention in his own.
This principle proved true in Job’s situation:
When Job prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes. Job 42:10 (NLT)
It is not unusual for prayer partners to focus on each other’s personal, family, and ministry needs or whatever other needs they may have. They develop genuine compassion for each other and pray with complete selflessness.
(4) Confidence
So encourage each other and build each other up . . . 1 Thessalonians 5: 11 (NLT)
The strongest Christian has a weak spot, and is capable of experiencing a weak moment. Some become discouraged when their misdeeds remind them that they are not yet perfect. They may lose confidence in themselves, and be tempted to lose confidence in God.
At such times, they need the benefits of godly counsel, empathy and supportive prayer from a friend. Sure, they can request prayer on the prayer line, but nothing builds confidence like the actual touch of a friend holding the hand or throwing an arm around a discouraged soul.
These days, when there are so many distractions and so many opportunities for doubt, praying with a friend is one sure way to build faith.
(5) Commitment
As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord by failing to pray for you. 1 Samuel 12: 23 (NIV)
This verse is probably the most famous line from Samuel’s farewell speech to the Israelites. Despite the fact that they rejected his prophet’s leadership in preference for the leadership of a king, Samuel committed to intercessory prayer on their behalf. This, he seemed to suggest, was a duty which, if he neglected, would be a sin against God.
It is safe to accept this principle as valid for all believers. Intercessory prayer is a duty.
How many times have people requested prayer and the request is forgotten? Praying with a friend makes it difficult to forget about intercession on each other’s behalf as well intercession for other people. Because the prayer partners meet regularly and share prayer requests, they have the opportunity to be true to their prayer commitments.
What do you think about praying with a friend regularly?
(6) Celebration
Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt his name together. Psalm 34:3 (NIV)
Have you ever had some good news burning in your chest, without the opportunity to share?
It lifts the spirits to hear songs of deliverance and testimonies of faith in the large assembly, but not every excited soul gets an opportunity to share her answer to prayer. Truth is, not everyone wants to testify before the crowd.
After the public celebration, friends who pray together get the opportunity to meet, share screams of victory and tears of joy. The benefits of praying with a friend include personal celebrations where they glorify God and “exalt his name together."
Furthermore, among friends, the celebration can last longer, and be repeated as often as they desire. In fact, there is always something to celebrate among friends who pray together. They are always grateful for the benefits of wholesome, supportive friendship.
* Bible Hub: The Pulpit Commentary, Matthew 18: 19 (© 2004-2014 by Biblos.com)
© 2014 Dora Isaac Weithers
Comments
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Tyler, I deleted the link but I rewrote your comment. Thanks again.
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Tyler, thanks for your encouragement. So happy that you practice this Christian responsibility of praying for others. I tried to rewrite your comment excluding the link, since HP does not prefer links in comments, but it didn't work so I'm leaving it. May the prayer seeds sown by you and your group flourish with a harvest of answers.
Thank You MSDora, for writing and sharing this post. I also believe in praying together and because of this joined a online Prayer group at "prayertogether" dot com for praying with others. Thanks once again for lovely post. praying with others.
Congrats on the well-deserved HOTD!!! God bless you, dear MsDora.
You have my amen on the one.
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Elsie, may God grant you His peace! I know He can.
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Deb, I'm happy for you that you enjoy such valuable benefits from praying with your friends. Best to you and your prayer partners going forward.
Yes I'm betraying myself. I have to stop felling guilty about praying and just do it, although I wouldn't feel good doing something I know my husband wouldn't approve of. Thanks I'm thinking about this very strongly, with real hurt in my heart.
I have a few prayer partners. At times, when I am feeling disconnected, a friend to pray with can restore my faith. When my friends are struggling I can return the kindness.
I pray a lot. Loudly and in silence and everything in between. God has shown me He listens even when I may not feel that He is near. The benefits of praying with a friend are countless. The main benefit is to commune together with a common supplication and stand on the promise of Matthew 18:20
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Thanks, Susie. I appreciate your encouragement.
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Elsie, I believe in cooperating with a spouse, but your situation does not have to stop your prayers.
You have said "my heart is yearning to pray," "it is really eating at me," "I know I need to pray."
Do not betray yourself.
Let God hear the whisperings of your heart. Thanks so much for sharing.
Awe inspiring for those who know the Lord. Congratulations on HOTD. You 'know' what you are writing about. Hitting all of the buttons on this hub.
Congratulations on the Hub of the day. I enjoyed reading it.
When I was a teenager I used to pray all the time, but when I turned 18, I meet my husband of nearly 55 years. He doesn't believe in praying, so I have never done it. Now in my later years my heart is yearning to pray, but don't want to betray my husband. It really is eating at me, I know I need to pray to lift my spirits in my later years. Thanks for the memories even if some of them are not good.
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Lori, thanks for sharing your experience with a prayer partner. Your last sentence should make others know how precious it can be.
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Bishop, I appreciate your vote and your sharing. Thank you.
congratualtions MsDora on Hub of the day, especially on the topic of prayer.
Praying with a friend is powerful. I have a friend who is my prayer partner. For two years we prayed together daily when we were both going through some pretty dark stuff. I can't put into words how powerful and life changing it was. She is still my prayer partner and I am hers. It's a friendship with deep roots and a love so great.
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Romeos, I surely appreciate your very kind comment. Thank you.
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June, thank you. I appreciate your visit and your comment.
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Thanks, Sima. Great that you experience the beauty of prayer fellowship.
Several of your articles seem equally worthy of such an accolade and it's always good to know when a writer receives the recognition they so thoroughly deserve when the nib hits the bullseye, so to speak.
Well done MsDora.
Best Wishes;
R.Q.
voted up and shared. Loved this. thank you.
Excellent hub. Congrats on making HOTD.
MsDora, Congratulations of this HOTD! Great choice. I was praying with a friend just yesterday - and the peace and fellowship it brought was wonderful. I think prayer is always in order: good times or bad; happy or sad. Thanks for this hub and the scripture you shared - it is a good resource.
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Charlino, I appreciate your visit and your comment. Thank you.
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Thanks Sally, for sharing the joy of this accolade with me.
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Ron, thank you kindly. I am also encouraged by your support.
Thank you for sharing this beautiful article about the art of prayer.
MsDora
Congratulations on your well deserved HOTD - I am delighted for you, this is a beautifully written hub.
Sally
Great encouragement for agreeing together in prayer, MsDora. And congratulations on your HOTD selection!
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Dear Healthyannie, I appreciate what you've shared about the benefits of praying together, and with people of other faiths. Thank you.
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Techygran, thanks for your visit. So happy that the article brought you some encouragement. I'll see more of you, too.
I often pray together with my friends. It is very healing, enforces the power of prayer. I also take time out to pray with people of different faiths, respect and tolerance for other religions are part of what makes faith stronger.
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Thanks, Thelma. I'm grateful for the recognition.
Dear MsDora! Awesome hub and totally worthy of the HOTD! This is the sort of uplifting hub I needed to read this morning-- and I can see that you have blessed many with your eloquent writing and your affirming responses to the comments. I'm looking forward to reading more by you, Sister! Voting up and sharing widely!
Congratulations on the HOTD! This is a great choice of the day. Well written and informative. Thanks for sharing MsDora.
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Ologsinquito, thank you. I'm surprised by the choice but happy that it was chosen.
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Thanks, Colby. I appreciate your visit.
Congratulations on being selected for HOTD. What a great choice.
*tips fedora*
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Emunah, thanks for your sweet encouragement. I appreciate you.
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Marlene, thank very much. I've been around people who try to put the prayer muffler on women. So glad you escaped them. God wants to hear our prayers and both genders are blessed by them. So pray on, sister.
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FirstDay, thanks for sharing your story of praying together with your mate for 30 years. I know that you have seen some blessings in your time. More blessings going forward.
Congrats on your HOTD Ms. Dora!!! I really love this uplifting article! I love that you shared the need for Compassion when praying! You are a motivational writer indeed! Congrats! Voted up and tweeted out!
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Kari, thanks for doing the not-normal on my account. I appreciate your encouragement and your insight on compassion.
Beautiful! When I first started my Christian walk, I had come from a background where the man of the church or household was the only one who was allowed to lead prayer. A woman leading prayer was disgraceful. I think the people who preach that concept interpreted a verse or two incorrectly. Nevertheless, when I became an adult and attended a church where women were leading prayer groups, I was amazed. Then, when I was called to lead a prayer, I was so nervous I wanted to leave. But, when I opened my mouth the words flowed out so smoothly and I was relieved that I was able to deliver a prayer for the first time in my life. It is most comforting to pray with others. Oh, by the way, congratulations on receiving Hub of the Day!
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Thanks,John. Glad you experience the benefits of praying with others. It is a blessing.
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Papaw, skipping over you was not intentional. I appreciate your encouragement.
MsDora,
What a beautiful soul you are to write this article. My husband is my best friend and we begin and end each day praying together. This has been the case for over 30 years. How many prayers is that? LOL
I also gave you a thumbs up! Where two or more come together and here many are coming together to thank you for this Hub. Blessings!
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Flourish, thank you. I appreciate you.
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Bill I always knew that you would receive this accolade before I did. Feels good getting it so soon after you. Thanks for your support.
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Peg, thank you. You have been a source of inspiration for me, ever since I began on HP 3 years ago. I appreciate you sincerely.
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Carla, thank you and God bless you, too.
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Susan, thank you and I'm glad that you found some inspiration in the article.
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Barack, "Useful" is an encouraging word for me. Thank you.
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Word, thank for sharing my joy at receiving this accolade. We do know the benefits of praying with a friend.
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Deal, I appreciate your visit and your kind comment. Thank you.
I don't normally say 'congrats on your HOTD', but CONGRATS on your HOTD! This is a beautiful message and well deserving of some recognition. :)
I believe that compassion is an essential trait for everyone to have in this world. I know that my compassion is strong when I pray for others, and praying with a friend would definitely keep you centered and amplify that compassion.
MSDora, what a wonderful article. - Yes, I have some wonderful sisters in the faith at work and do pray with them from time to time. Sometimes, I'll even ask them to pray for me on issues I'm currently facing.
Great article and congrats on winning HOTD - in Jesus' Mighty Name!
- voted up
Congratulations on HOTD MsDora! Way to go!
Thanks for living your faith. Well done.
Congratulations on the HOTD. I like it when good people get recognition for their efforts.
I was so pleased to see this hub was awarded the Hub of the Day today, MsDora. This is so encouraging in our world where people have become afraid to speak of their faith and to mention God's name other than in vain. Your points on prayer are well made and beautifully explained. Thank you so much for this meaningful hub. Prayer is powerful.
MS. DORA!!! Congratulations on HOTD! What a wonderful topic and great points. God Bless!
Thank you for my morning devotional. What wise and inspired words! Congratulations, too, on your Hub of the Day honors. Be blessed!
What a useful piece; it's not a coincidence that it is the Hub of the day: Aneegma foresaw it 2 months ago. Thanks and congrats MsDora.
Congrats MsDora! HOTD! May God continue to bless your writing! :-)
Really great hub idea and so true! Praying or chanting with another person can sometimes supercharge your prayer.
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Rebecca, great way to say it. Thanks for your input.
I think praying with one or more people is a way to boost the power of prayer, and thanks for reminding us!
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Lady E, I'm sure that you miss the benefits of that prayer session. Hope it can be restored. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for a very inspiring Hub and sharing the benefits. I also believe the benefits are astounding. I still remember the verses "one will chase a thousand, two will chase ten thousand."
I used to have a prayer session with a friend every friday afternoon....(just 15/20mins) the interesting thing was it was always a phone call. We had a set time we prayed on the phone, for months and it was very rewarding....work hasn't made it possible recently...but your HUB sure speaks to my heart about it.
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Ologsinquito, thank you for sharing that affirmation. More blessings and answered prayers to you and your friend.
Hi Ms Dora, I pray with one of my other Catholic friends and we've noticed that our prayers seem to be more effective when we pray together.
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Poetryman, thanks for your input.
Life is short. Pray hard!
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Thank you, Teaches. I am encouraged when I meet people who believe in prayer. Thank you for sharing.
The Biblical saying "iron sharpens iron" comes to mind when I read your article. I appreciate my friends who pray with me. I know how prayer changes things for the better. Excellent post!
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Torrilynn, that's exactly what I would like all my readers to get from this article. Thank you.
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Torrilynn, that's exactly what I would like all my readers to get from this article. Thank you.
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Torrilynn, that's exactly what I would like all my readers to get from this article. Thank you.
Praying with a friend can bring you closer together while bringing you closer to God. Well written hub. Voted up.
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These instructions make quite a lost of sense, and I could see how it discourages self-exaltation, which could be damaging. I appreciate you sharing these concepts. Thank you.
The most powerful prayer groups of which I have been a member always had two common factors: very small in number, and all the same gender. (For me, that means all males.)
The Holy Spirit once told me prayer groups should be all the same gender, and should move around home to home, using the personal homes of as many of the members as could host the group.
The Holy Spirit told me to teach others this message and to tell them to never give this practice a name. Once it has a name, the wolves in the pulpits will attack it.
Just say, "I pray with Debbie, Sarah, Tina, and Shelly." Or, "I pray with Bob and Vlad."
Move houses so it never becomes "Tim's prayer meeting" or "Deborah's cell group."
Men with men. Women with women. Don't name it. Move around. If someone can't host, no problem. But, if they can, they should.
Thanks for encouraging prayer!
Here is one last saying: "The couple that prays together, stays together."
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Theresa, accountability is a necessity in the life of a Christian; and people who pray together often care deeply for each other. Thanks for your comment.
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Frank, I appreciate your comment. Thank you.
Wonderful and beneficial hub, MsDora. We all need prayer partners, people to hold ys accountable and strengthen us when we are weak, and of course it goes both ways, If they become our lifelong dear friends, even better. Blessings. Theresa
strength in numbers MsDora.. praying with a friend or friends is a great idea.. wonderful hub
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Denise, what a beautiful testimony. Thank you for sharing.
Some of the sweetest experiences I have had in my life have occurred when praying with and for a friend. It is wonderful to feel the light of heaven smiling down upon two people as they petition the Lord in each other's behalf.
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Faith, you certainly know the benefits of praying with a friend and with a spouse. Joy is an essential benefit. Thank you for your valuable input, and your sharing. I appreciate you.
It is indeed such a beautiful blessing to have a prayer partner, MsDora. The bonds of friendship are strengthened with the many benefits of praying together as you have written so wonderfully here. We need each other.
It is also so powerful when we pray with our spouses too, even just five minutes a day together, and your commitment to each other is strengthened for a lifetime.
We are so blessed to be able to pray to our Lord God and know that He hears, He heals and He loves ... especially, to be in that personal relationship with us.
It is such a joy to share when prayers are answered and healing takes place!
Voted up ++++ tweeting, pinning, googling and sharing
God bless you. In His Love, Faith Reaper
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Jackie, you and your prayer partner are blessed to have each other. Thank you for sharing!
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Perspycacious, thank you for your input. Great quote!
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Jacqui, you don't have to be religious to pray. I'm also glad that you found the article, and that you learned something about prayer. Thanks for your visit.
I have such a friend as this right here at HP Dora and it is very wonderful indeed. We can always call on the other to pray when we need it and often that verse comes to mind to pray one for another so you can be healed. That verse may come to mind more than any other come to think of it. It reminds me that I am far from being the only one who needs prayer. Great article; as always.
And "Where two or more are gathered....." also 1 John 3:22 and 1 John 5:42. In a turn on another common phrase: Failing to pray is tantamount to praying to fail.
Great job here, Ms. Dora. Your Master is proud of you, too.
Dora, I'm not sure what drew me to this hub, as I'm not religious. But it was a very interesting read. Along with being very well written. I've learnt quite a bit from this hub today, about what prayer means for those who choose to do so, and what people can get out of praying together. Whilst I will not be taking up prayer anytime soon, I now have a greater understanding of what it means to others. Thank you for writing and sharing this hub. I'm glad I found it.
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Thank you, Lastheart. God bless you, too for the great encourager you are!
Dora this is a great devotional hub! This is the answer to our struggles, praying to God is a must...He is our Creator, Lord, and Savior; no other way we will find what we need not necessarily what we want. I am really proud having you around. May God bless every reader with the words God gave to you. Thanks!
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Devika, thanks for your affirmation and your continuing support.
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