2 Corinthians 1:11 You also join in helping us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the gift granted us through the prayers of many.
This is a significant verse about the power of prayer. The Corinthians can partner with Paul through all this suffering by joining together in prayer. Prayer is what connects believers everywhere together. Prayer unites us with others across the world. The Corinthians could not be present with Paul and their ability to help him from a distance was limited. This is an invitation to help him in an even more profound and powerful way. Prayer is an appeal to God to strengthen and sustain our brothers and sisters in Christ who are having a difficult time.
Such prayer leads to thanksgiving both by those who are suffering and those who are praying. It brings blessing. This blessing may or may not be in the form of rescue but will surely be in the form of spiritual renewal and hope. Praying for others does two things. One, it helps the ones who are praying because it connects them to others and helps build the faith of confidence of those who pray. It takes the worry we may have for others and places it in God’s hands. Two, it helps those who are suffering because they realize that they are not alone. Although they may not be rescued or the suffering may not go away, their faith also will be strengthened knowing that other people are praying for them. The prayers of others can turn our eyes from our own worries and pain and turn them to heaven and to God. It is powerful to have someone say, “I am praying for you.” Prayer is the connection we have together. It is the open door to experience blessings, strength, and renewal.
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