Prayer Carries Us Along

I recently saw a video clip of a family of elephants crossing a small river.  There was a very young elephant among them, and it was struggling to cross.  It  kept being swept away by the rapidly moving current.  The mother elephant was right with the baby trying to help it along.  Every time she seemed to make progress, the strong current of the river defeated her.

Then the most wonderful thing happened.  Most of the elephants had already crossed the river when they realized what was happening with the baby.  They all turned around and came back to help.  One particularly large elephant came to help the mother.  Between them they managed to protect the baby with their big legs and push it along to the other side. 

I watched the video several times.  What struck me was how they looked out for each other.  Even though most of them had made it across to safety, they didn't hesitate to turn around and get back in the river to help the mother and baby in need. 

I had the thought that this is what so many people are to me.  I'm like that baby elephant.  When I'm "floundering" in the river I can call out and ask for prayer.  I'm so grateful for that!  I know I can call for help whenever I need it.  Time and time again dear ones have rallied and prayed for me.  I’m so thankful!!!  

When I ask for prayer in my weakness I very often get so many lovely messages of support and prayer.  This is how it should be for all of us in the Body of Christ.  My situation is just one small example.  Through Floyd's 5+ years of illness I sensed the prayer support from so many faithful ones.  I'm so grateful.  I haven't felt alone because I've known people were praying for me/us all around the world.

"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."  Galatians 6:2 

"Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed.  The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."  James 5:16 

"Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees."  Hebrews 12:12

"With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord's people."  Ephesians 6:18 

"Since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you.  We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives."  Colossians 1:9 

"Is any among you afflicted?  Let him pray.  Is any merry?  Let him sing psalms."  James 5:13

I could never have made it through the raging rivers the last few years on my own - even the recent days.  Prayer has truly carried me along.  I'm so grateful.