Traditional Chinese Medicine: An Overview of Different Approaches and Their Benefits

 

     (This article is the second of a five-part series on alternative medicine.) 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient form of healthcare and a holistic way of healing that dates back over 2,500 years and includes natural treatments such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, dietary advice, massage, stress/emotional support, exercise including tai chi and qi gong and treatments such as cupping and moxibustion. TCM is based on the theory that sickness stems from an imbalance in a person’s life force energy (known as qi) and that restoring harmony and balance can promote health and well-being by stimulating the body's own healing ability. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the different approaches of TCM and how they work, as well as how people can benefit from using these techniques and how to find a practitioner of TCM.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a technique in which practitioners stimulate specific points on the body, usually by inserting thin needles through the skin. These points are believed to correspond to the flow of qi through channels called meridians, which connect the organs and functions of the body. By stimulating these points, acupuncture can regulate the flow of qi and correct any imbalances that may cause disease or pain. Acupuncture can also stimulate the release of the body’s natural painkillers and affect areas in the brain involved in processing pain.

 

Studies suggest that acupuncture may help ease types of pain that are often chronic, such as low-back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis/knee pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome. It may also help reduce the frequency of tension headaches and prevent migraine headaches. Acupuncture may also have benefits for other conditions, such as insomnia, anxiety, depression, allergies, asthma, menstrual problems, infertility, and digestive disorders.

 

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies are an important part of TCM and involve the use of plants, minerals, animal products, or synthetic substances to treat various health problems. TCM practitioners use herbal formulas that are tailored to the individual’s condition, constitution, and environment. The formulas may contain several ingredients that work together to achieve the desired effect. Some of the common herbs used in TCM include ginseng, ginger, licorice, cinnamon, astragalus, angelica, peony, and reishi. Herbal remedies may have effects on the immune system, inflammation, hormones, blood circulation, digestion, and metabolism. 

Studies have shown that some herbal products may have benefits for conditions such as stroke, heart disease, mental disorders, respiratory diseases (such as bronchitis and the common cold), diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, cancer, and skin problems.  Some herbal products may also have side effects or interact with other medications or supplements. Therefore, consulting with a qualified TCM practitioner before using any herbal remedies is important.

 

Dietary Advice

Dietary advice is another aspect of TCM that aims to prevent or treat diseases by adjusting the intake of food and drinks according to one’s individual needs and characteristics. TCM practitioners believe that different foods have different properties (such as hot or cold, moist, or dry) that can affect the balance of qi in the body. For example, eating too much cold food may cause digestive problems or weaken the immune system. Eating too much hot food may cause inflammation or irritability. Therefore, TCM practitioners recommend eating foods that are suitable for one’s constitution and season and avoiding foods that may aggravate one’s condition or symptoms. In the summer when it is hot eating cucumbers or watermelons may help us to cool down and, in the winter, when it is cold, eating foods like shrimp or beef may warm up the body.

 

Cupping

Cupping is an age-old technique used in TCM to stimulate acupuncture points or larger areas of the body. Cupping is often practiced alongside acupuncture but can also be used as a treatment in its own right. Cups are rounded and usually made of glass or plastic. The practitioner creates a vacuum inside the cup and quickly places it onto the skin where treatment is needed. The cup is left in place for anything up to 20 minutes. Several cups are often used in one treatment.

 

Cupping works by drawing up the skin and the pores are opened up, stimulating qi and blood flow. This allows the body to naturally balance and realign and helps draw toxins out of the body. Cupping can be used for many different treatments, but the most common conditions treated include:

Respiratory conditions such as common cold, flu, bronchitis, and asthma

Arthritis

Gastrointestinal disorders

Stiff and/or painful neck, back, and shoulder muscles

Depression

 

Moxibustion

Moxibustion is an essential part of TCM that involves burning a cone or stick of a ground substance (usually mugwort) near the skin at acupuncture points. It promotes warmth, pain relief, or healing in an area. Moxibustion can be applied directly on the skin or indirectly by holding the burning substance above the skin or placing it on top of an acupuncture needle. Moxibustion can also be done with a moxa roll, which is a cigar-shaped stick that is lit and held near the skin.

 

Moxibustion works by warming and stimulating the acupuncture points and meridians, enhancing the flow of qi and blood. Moxibustion can also have effects on the immune system and inflammation. Moxibustion can be used for various conditions, such as:

 

Cold or damp conditions

Weakness or fatigue

Pain or stiffness

Digestive problems

Menstrual problems

Breech presentation in pregnancy

 

How to Find a Practitioner of TCM

If you are interested in trying any of the TCM approaches mentioned above, you should look for a qualified and experienced practitioner who has been trained and certified in TCM. You can ask your doctor for a referral or search online for a reputable TCM association or organization that can provide you with a list of practitioners in your area. You can also check the credentials and reviews of the practitioners before making an appointment.

When you visit a TCM practitioner, you can expect to have a thorough consultation that involves asking about your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle, and emotions. The practitioner may also examine your tongue, pulse, and other physical signs. Based on the diagnosis, the practitioner will recommend a treatment plan that may include one or more of the TCM approaches discussed above. The treatment plan may also be adjusted according to your progress and feedback. 

Any information on conditions, illnesses, diseases, remedies, and treatments available via this blog is intended for general guidance only and must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by your doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals.

Does Alternative Medicine Have Any Value for Your Health and Well-being?

         (This article is the first of a five-part series on alternative medicine.)

If you are looking for ways to improve your health and well-being, you might be interested in learning more about alternative treatments. We have a responsibility to educate ourselves about maintaining good health and to have input in making the best choices when we have health conditions that need to be addressed. Alternative treatments are methods of healing that are not based on conventional medicine, but rather on natural, holistic, or traditional approaches. Some of these treatments have been used for thousands of years, while others are more recent innovations. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most popular and widely used alternative treatments, and how they can benefit you.

 

One of the most ancient and well-known alternative treatments is acupuncture. Acupuncture is a technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, called acupoints, to stimulate the flow of energy or qi. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, qi is the vital force that regulates all aspects of health and disease. When qi is blocked or imbalanced, it can cause pain, illness, or emotional distress. Acupuncture aims to restore the balance and harmony of qi, and thus promote healing and wellness. Acupuncture can be used to treat a variety of conditions, such as chronic pain, headaches, insomnia, anxiety, depression, allergies, asthma, digestive problems, menstrual disorders, infertility, and more.

  

Another alternative treatment that is based on energy is quantum biofeedback. Quantum biofeedback is a technology that uses sensors to measure the electrical activity of the body and brain and then provides feedback to the user through sounds, images, or vibrations. The feedback helps the user to become aware of their own physiological and psychological states and to learn how to modify them. Quantum biofeedback can help with stress reduction, relaxation, pain management, mood enhancement, cognitive performance, and more.

 

Ayurveda is an ancient system of holistic healing that originated in India and is still widely practiced in some parts of Asia. The word Ayurveda means "science of life" or "knowledge of life" and it is based on the idea that health and wellness depend on a balance between the mind, body, spirit, and environment. Ayurveda uses various therapies, such as herbal medicines, special diets, meditation, yoga, massage, and cleansing techniques, to restore this balance and prevent or treat diseases. Ayurveda may have some benefits for people who are looking for a natural and holistic way to improve their health and well-being. It may help with stress management, relaxation, detoxification, and general wellness. However, more research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of ayurvedic treatments for specific conditions.

  

A fourth alternative treatment that is popular and widely used is iridology. Iridology is the study of the iris, the colored part of the eye. Iridologists believe that the iris reflects the health and condition of every organ and system in the body. By examining the iris patterns, colors, shapes, and markings, they can diagnose potential health problems and recommend appropriate treatments. Iridology can be used to detect inflammation, infection, toxicity, nutritional deficiencies, genetic predispositions, emotional issues, and more.

 

These are just some examples of alternative treatments that are available for anyone who wants to try a different approach to healing. There are many more options to choose from, such as rife treatment, kinesiology, tapping, magnetic therapy, various types of massages, hydrotherapy, hot and cold treatments, and herbal remedies taken as teas, tablets, drinks, tonics, or used as baths or poultices. Essential oils are used for aromatherapy. Other techniques such as grounding are said to contribute to overall health.

 

Before you decide to try any alternative treatment, it is important to do your research and read widely on the type of treatment or therapy as well as the particular practitioner who will be consulted before making a decision on whether to do a consultation with that practitioner or before you try a particular alternative method of treatment. These methods usually require consistent use over some time. One difficulty is that many people do not educate themselves about what is involved and what to expect. They often expect immediate results although conventional medical treatment and medicines do not always provide immediate relief but require time for the effect to be had. This could be a short period like minutes or days, or it could be treatment that has to be done or taken consistently for the rest of their lives. It is important to check on the effectiveness of these treatments as well as to find out about possible side effects or consequences.

 

Alternative treatments can offer many benefits for those who are willing to explore them with an open mind and a critical eye. They can complement conventional medicine or provide an alternative when conventional medicine fails or causes unwanted side effects. They can also enhance your overall quality of life by addressing not only your physical symptoms but also your mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. If you are curious about alternative treatments don't hesitate to learn more about them and see if they suit your needs and preferences. If you are interested in trying an alternative treatment, make sure to consult your doctor first and inform them of any herbs or supplements you are taking. 

Any information on conditions, illnesses, diseases, remedies, and treatments available via this blog is intended for general guidance only and must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by your doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals.

Important Considerations for Developing a Work Ethic for Success

In this blog post, I want to share with you some of the key attitudes and characteristics that can help you achieve success in any endeavor you pursue in life. These are not innate traits that you are born with, but rather habits that you can cultivate and practice over time. By applying these principles consistently and passionately, you can improve your performance and outcomes in any field or domain.

 

One of the most important attitudes is planning. Planning means setting clear and realistic goals, breaking them down into manageable steps, and tracking your progress and results. Planning helps you focus on what matters most, avoid distractions and procrastination, and adapt to changing circumstances. Planning also helps you measure your success and learn from your failures. Marie was starting a new job in a new city and was staying with a friend and former coworker for a few days until her own place was ready. She would be introduced to the team that she would be leading so the evening before she was practicing her speech when her friend asked her what she was doing. When she explained that she had prepared a speech and was practicing it, her friend Sandra was surprised. Sandra said she would never have thought of preparing so intently and stated when people are successful others should not be envious as they have no idea as to the amount of effort some people put into achieving the success they have. For Sandra, that was a lesson she learned by observing her friend’s approach and applying it in her own life. 

 

Another crucial attitude is excellence. Excellence means striving to do your best in every task, whether big or small. Excellence means paying attention to details, quality, and standards. Excellence means not settling for mediocrity or complacency, but always seeking to improve and innovate. Excellence also means being accountable for your actions and results and taking responsibility for your mistakes. There should be no room for excuses. Sometimes we do not even know what the best practices are.  It is important to do research and then add your creativity when approaching tasks or ventures. Be accountable to God and to yourself before all others including your boss. If you take that approach, you will be your harshest critic and your own accountability watchdog.  You will cultivate habits and attitudes that will help you to do your best at all times.

 

A third vital attitude is passion. Passion means having a strong interest in and enthusiasm for what you do. Passion means being motivated by intrinsic rewards, such as satisfaction, enjoyment, and fulfillment. Passion means being curious and eager to learn new things and being open to feedback and criticism. Passion also means being persistent and resilient in the face of challenges and obstacles. It also means making sacrifices to achieve the desired results. Some people will make negative comments about the effort someone else puts into doing a task or even ridicule them. When the effort bears rewards, however, they often forget that that person was working while they were enjoying themselves. This is also a reason to focus on doing your best and not give in to the negative influence of others.

 

A fourth key attitude is resourcefulness. Resourcefulness means making the most of what you have available, whether it is time, money, skills, or tools. Resourcefulness means being creative and flexible in finding solutions to problems and being willing to collaborate with others who can help you. Resourcefulness also means being optimistic and confident in your abilities, and not letting limitations or setbacks discourage you. Bear in mind that others will try to discredit your abilities and effort if they are secretly competing with you and want to see you fail. Knowing who to share with and to take advice from and who to block out can help you to avoid some pitfalls.

 

These four attitudes - planning, excellence, passion, and resourcefulness - can make a huge difference in your success in life. Of course, they are not the only factors that matter, and sometimes there are external factors that are beyond your control that can affect your outcomes. But if you have done your best with what you have, you can be proud of yourself and your achievements. If you are always willing to grow and change when needed, then you can seize new opportunities and overcome new challenges.

 

I hope this blog post has inspired you to adopt these attitudes and characteristics in your own life. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below. Thank you for reading!

Life in Jesus... What is that?

 How to Find the Meaning of Life in Jesus

 

Do you ever wonder what the meaning of life is? Why are you here? What is your purpose? What is your destiny?

 

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone. Many people ask these questions at some point in their lives. They seek for answers in different places and things, such as money, fame, power, pleasure, philosophy, religion, or science. But none of these can satisfy the deepest longing of the human soul.

 

But the good news is, there is an answer to these questions. There is a source of meaning and fulfillment that can satisfy our souls. There is a person who can reveal our purpose and destiny. That person is Jesus.

 

Jesus is the Son of God, who created us and loves us (John 1:1-3; 3:16). He is the image of the invisible God, who shows us who God is and what He is like (Colossians 1:15; Hebrews 1:3). He is the Word of God, who speaks to us and reveals His truth and wisdom (John 1:14; 8:31-32). He is the life of God, who gives us abundant and eternal life (John 10:10; 11:25).

 

But how can we find the meaning of life in Jesus? How can we discover our purpose and destiny in Him? Here are some steps that can help us find the meaning of life in Jesus and follow Him.

 

- Seek Jesus with all your heart. Jesus said that if we seek Him, we will find Him (Matthew 7:7-8). He also said that He is the way to God and to eternal life (John 14:6). To seek Jesus means to desire Him more than anything else, to pursue Him with passion and diligence, to search for Him in His word and prayer, and to follow Him wherever He leads us (Psalm 42:1-2; Jeremiah 29:13; Matthew 13:44-46).

- Know Jesus personally and intimately. Jesus said that eternal life is to know God and His Son (John 17:3). He also said that He wants us to be His friends, not just His servants (John 15:15). To know Jesus means to have a personal and intimate relationship with Him, to trust Him as our Savior and Lord, to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to enjoy His presence and fellowship (John 1:12; Romans 10:9-10; Mark 12:30; Philippians 3:8-10).

- Serve Jesus faithfully and fruitfully. Jesus said that He came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45). He also said that He wants us to bear much fruit for His glory (John 15:8). To serve Jesus means to use our gifts and talents for His kingdom, to do His will and work in this world, to share His gospel and love with others, and to make disciples of all nations (Matthew 25:14-30; 28:18-20; Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 4:10-11).

- Glorify Jesus eternally and joyfully. Jesus said that He will come again and take us to be with Him forever (John 14:2-3). He also said that He will reward us according to what we have done for Him (Matthew 16:27). To glorify Jesus means to live for His honor and praise, to worship Him in spirit and truth, to reflect His character and beauty, and to rejoice in His grace and goodness (Romans 11:36; John 4:23-24; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Philippians 4:4).

 

The next time you wonder what the meaning of life is, don't look for it in the things of this world. Instead, look to Jesus, the one who can give you meaning and fulfillment. He is the one who can reveal your purpose and destiny. He is the one who can make your life worth living.

Christians Battling Depression

 Depression is a common and serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think,
and act. It can cause persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest, hopelessness, guilt, and low self-worth. Depression can also interfere with your daily activities, relationships, work, and physical health.

 

There is no single cause of depression. It can result from a combination of biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors. 

Some of the risk factors for depression include:

 

- Having a family history of depression or other mental illnesses

- Experiencing stressful or traumatic life events, such as abuse, loss, divorce, financial problems, or chronic illness

- Having certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem, perfectionism, pessimism, or dependency

- Having other mental or physical health conditions, such as anxiety, substance abuse, chronic pain, or diabetes

- Taking certain medications or substances that can affect your mood, such as steroids, alcohol, or drugs

 

Many Christians suffer from depression and may feel ashamed, guilty, or isolated from their faith community. They may wonder why God has allowed them to experience such pain and despair. They may doubt their salvation or question their relationship with God.

 

However, depression is not a sign of weakness, sin, or lack of faith. It is a medical condition that can affect anyone, regardless of their religious beliefs. God loves you and cares for you, even when you feel hopeless and distant from Him. He does not condemn you or abandon you because of your depression. He wants to heal you and restore your joy and peace.

 

Besides your faith in Jesus Christ, here are some other things that can help you overcome depression:

 

- Seek professional help from a qualified therapist or counselor who can provide you with effective treatments for depression, such as medication, psychotherapy, or cognitive-behavioral therapy. They can also help you identify and cope with the underlying causes and triggers of your depression.

- Practice healthy habits that can improve your mood and well-being, such as getting enough sleep, eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and managing stress. These habits can also boost your immune system and prevent physical complications from depression.

- Engage in activities that bring you joy and satisfaction, such as hobbies, interests, volunteering, or learning new skills. These activities can help you express yourself, distract yourself from negative thoughts and feelings, and increase your self-esteem and confidence.

- Connect with supportive people who can offer you love, care, and empathy, such as family members, friends, or support groups. These people can help you feel less lonely and isolated, provide you with practical and emotional assistance, and challenge your distorted thinking and beliefs.

 

Your faith in Jesus can help you overcome depression in several ways:

 

- It can give you a new identity and purpose in Christ. You are not defined by your depression or your past mistakes. You are a beloved child of God, created in His image and redeemed by His grace. You have a meaningful role in His kingdom and a glorious future in His presence.

- It can give you access to God's presence and power through prayer and the Holy Spirit. You can talk to God anytime and anywhere about anything that troubles you. He listens to you and answers you according to His will. You can also receive the Holy Spirit who lives in you and guides you into all truth. He comforts you, strengthens you, teaches you, and helps you to pray.

- It can give you hope, and assurance based on God's promises and character. You can trust that God is faithful, good, and sovereign over all things. He has a plan for your life and works all things together for your good. He will never leave you nor forsake you. He will fulfill His purposes for you and complete the good work He began in you.

- It can give you support and encouragement through the church and other believers. You are not alone in your struggle with depression. You are part of the body of Christ, where each member cares for one another. You can find help, comfort, and guidance from your pastor, elders, counselors, and fellow Christians. You can also share your gifts, talents, and experiences with others and bless them in return.

 

Disclaimer:

Any information on diseases and treatments available via this blog is intended for general guidance only and must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by your doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals.

Does God Exist? Is the Bible True? Can Our Faith Survive?

 In a world where many voices are trying to undermine the Christian faith, how can believers stay strong and confident in their relationship with God? How can they avoid being influenced by the negativity and doubt that surrounds them? How can they deal with their own questions and struggles when they face difficulties in life? These are some of the challenges that Christians face in the modern age, and they require wisdom, discernment, and courage to overcome.

 

One of the first things that Christians need to do is to be grounded in the truth of God's word. The Bible is not a human invention, but a divine revelation that reveals who God is, what He has done, and what He promises to do. The Bible is the ultimate authority for our faith and practice, and it is the source of our hope and joy. The Bible is not a book of myths or legends, but a book of history and prophecy that confirms the reality of God's existence, the deity of Jesus Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit. The Bible is not a book of rules or regulations, but a book of love and grace that shows us how to live in a way that pleases God and blesses others.

 

Therefore, Christians need to read, study, meditate and memorize the Bible regularly. They need to apply its teachings to their lives and obey its commands. They need to pray over its promises and claim them by faith. They need to share its message with others and defend it against attacks. They need to love the Bible as God's word and treasure it as their most precious possession.

 

Another thing that Christians need to do is to be connected to the body of Christ. The church is not a human organization, but a divine institution that represents God's presence and purpose in the world. The church is not a social club or a religious ritual, but a spiritual family and a mission force. The church is not a place or a program, but a people and a movement. The church is not an option or an accessory, but a necessity and a priority for every believer.

 

Therefore, Christians need to be involved in a local church that teaches sound doctrine, practices biblical worship, fosters loving fellowship, promotes godly service, and engages in faithful witness. They need to submit to the leadership of their pastors and elders, support the ministry of their deacons and teachers, encourage the growth of their brothers and sisters, and welcome the diversity of their guests and visitors. They need to participate in the public gatherings and the small groups of their church, contribute their time, talents, and treasures to its work, seek its counsel, correction, and comfort in times of need, and celebrate its joys and sorrows as one body.

 

A third thing Christians need to do is be filled with the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit is not a force or an influence, but a person whom Jesus sent to be our Comforter. The Holy Spirit is not an addition or an improvement, but an essential and indispensable part of our salvation. The Holy Spirit is not a temporary or an occasional gift, but a permanent and ongoing presence in our lives. The Holy Spirit is not a source of confusion or division, but an agent of clarity and unity among God's people.

 

Therefore, Christians need to yield to the control and guidance of the Holy Spirit daily. They need to confess their sins and repent of their rebellion against Him. They need to ask for His filling and empowerment for every situation they face. They need to listen to His voice and follow His direction through His word. They need to cultivate His fruit and exercise His gifts for His glory. They need to acknowledge His sovereignty and cooperate with His work in their lives.

 

These are some ways Christians can maintain their beliefs, faith, and trust in God in a hostile world. They can avoid all the negativity by focusing on the positivity of God's word, God's people, and God's Spirit. They can also read those articles or watch videos that question or challenge their faith with discernment and confidence, knowing that God's truth will always prevail over human error. When they are struggling in life and questioning their own beliefs, they can turn to God in prayer, seek His help through His word, find support from His people, and rely on His grace through His Spirit.

 

God has not left us alone or defenseless in this world. He has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him (2 Peter 1:3). He has promised to never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). He has assured us that nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:38-39). He has guaranteed us that He who began a good work in us will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus (Philippians 1:6).

 

Let us therefore hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful (Hebrews 10:23).

Does Prayer Really Work?

Does prayer really work? According to Christians, prayer is a vital part of their lifestyle. It is a way of communicating with God, expressing our gratitude, confessing our sins, and asking for His help. But... does prayer really work? Is it effective in changing our circumstances or influencing God's will?

The Bible affirms that prayer is powerful and effective. Jesus taught His disciples to pray and not lose heart (Luke 18:1). He also instructed them to pray continually in every situation (1 Thessalonians 5:17). Jesus Himself often prayed to His Father, especially before important events or decisions (Luke 6:12; Matthew 26:36-46).

 

But how does prayer work? Does it change God's mind or alter His plans? Does it make us more deserving of His blessings or more immune to His judgments? Does it guarantee that we will get what we want or avoid what we fear?

 

The answer to these questions is not simple or straightforward. Prayer is not a magic formula or a vending machine. Prayer is not a way of manipulating God or imposing our will on Him. Prayer is not a means of earning God's favor or escaping His discipline.

 

Prayer is a way of aligning ourselves with God's will and purposes. Prayer is a way of acknowledging God's sovereignty and wisdom. Prayer is a way of trusting God's goodness and faithfulness. Prayer is a way of submitting to God's authority and glory.

 

Prayer works because God works. He works in us, through us, and for us. He works according to His perfect plan and timing. He works for His own name's sake and for our ultimate good.

 

Prayer does not guarantee that we will always get what we want, but it assures us that we will always get what we need. Prayer does not guarantee that we will always avoid what we fear, but it assures us that we will always overcome what we face. Prayer does not guarantee that we will always understand what God is doing, but it assures us that we will always know who God is.

 

Prayer works because prayer changes us. It changes our perspectives, our attitudes, our characters, and our behaviors. It changes our relationship with God, with ourselves, and with others. It changes our desires, our motives, our priorities, and our goals.

 

Prayer works because prayer glorifies God. It glorifies Him as the Creator, the Sustainer, the Redeemer, and the Judge of all things. It glorifies Him as the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It glorifies Him as the Lord, the Savior, the Master, and the Friend of all who call on Him.

 

Prayer works because prayer is a gift from God. It is a gift of grace, mercy, love, and peace. It is a gift of access, intimacy, fellowship, and communion. It is a gift of joy, hope, faith, and power.

 

Prayer works because prayer is a privilege and a responsibility. It is a privilege to talk to the King of kings and the Lord of lords. It is a responsibility to listen to His voice and obey His commands. It is a privilege to share our hearts with the One who knows us better than ourselves. It is a responsibility to intercede for others who need His intervention.

 

Prayer works because prayer is an act of worship and service. It is an act of worship that honors God for who He is and what He has done. It is an act of service that expresses our gratitude for what He has given us and what He expects from us.

 

Prayer works because prayer is an expression of faith and love. It is an expression of faith that believes in God's promises and power. It is an expression of love that delights in God's presence and pleasure.

 

Does prayer really work? Yes, it does. But not because of us, but because of Him.