upper room devotional:
My friend had been going through a rough time. A long-distance move, unexpected health issues, and financial concerns had put her in a tailspin. We spoke over the telephone often; and invariably, conversation turned to discussion of her difficulties. My prayers for her never wavered, yet I felt that my prayers were left unanswered since her trials seemed to persist. “I wish I could help somehow,” I said to her. “My prayers don’t seem to be enough.” “Oh, no!” she told me emphatically. “You are an answer to my prayer. Each time I speak with you, I feel renewed and ready to move forward through this time in my life.” A similar story is in Acts 11:19-26. The church sent Barnabas to the Christians at Antioch, who perhaps felt overwhelmed by their circumstances. “He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith,” and he provided them with assistance and encouragement. While I can’t solve all my friend’s problems, I can be a reassuring, encouraging presence for her as she moves forward in her life with God — an answer to prayer indeed.