We often hear the phrase “thoughts and prayers,” but I’ve found it easy to say and harder to follow through in the busyness of life. That’s why I started a prayer book.
My daughter gave me a journal, and I began writing down the names of people who needed prayer. I’ve been doing it for a couple of years. I include family, friends, people in recovery like me, and even strangers I come across on Facebook or meet in passing. Sometimes, I pray for situations I see in the world—natural disasters, troubled nations, or world leaders who need wisdom and guidance. Some people I tell, some I don’t. But each name or need is a quiet reminder to pause, lift them up, and trust God to meet them where they are.
This little book means a lot to me. It keeps me grounded, connected, and honest in my intentions. I wrote the poem below to express what it means to carry these names in prayer. I truly care and believe that prayer works.
The Prayer Book
Within these pages, names I store,
Each burden marked forevermore.
The ink bears witness to my care,
A silent plea, a whispered prayer.
I clasp my hands and bow my head,
For all their needs, for tears they’ve shed.
You know each struggle, every call,
You see them, Lord, You know it all.
For bodies weak and hearts that seek,
For those who’ve lost the strength to speak,
Surround them with the Holy Ghost,
Let healing reach where needed most.
Grant peace to those who toss at night,
And help them win their silent fight.
Protect them with Your mighty hand,
Give them strength to rise and stand.
Draw them close and help them see
How deep Your love for them must be.
Let grace and mercy be their guide,
With You forever by their side.
Help me be who they might need,
A friend who longs to plant a seed,
So faith and hope will bloom this day,
And Your light will lead our way.
— David Ritter
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