EXPRESSIONS OF FAITH
One path to power is prayer
By Seaward B. Grant
The Gospel of John records Jesus as saying, "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; Even the Spirit of truth. I will not leave you comfortless." (John 14:16-18)
I keep this spirit of truth in mind while working as a chaplain at correctional facilities.
Conducting church services for people who are cut off from society has given me a broader appreciation of the Holy Bible, and its promises. Many people, including those who are incarcerated, are finding comfort in scripture.
The life practice and example of Jesus found in the Bible has become a model lifestyle for many. For those following in the way, much gratitude has been expressed in lives rebuilt and restored.
Correctional facilities in particular are full of individual experiences where salvation and regeneration have occurred. Although this does not get much media attention, each experience points to the effect prayer can have on us and our loved ones.
Recently, an inmate shared with me an experience that had an impact on his life "inside." He had gotten himself on the other side of the law and landed in prison. At age 50, still reflecting upon his past mistakes, he was healed through prayer from smoking cigarettes, something he had done since he was nine.
He believes an honest approach and consistent Bible study, shared at the correctional facilities, encouraged him in bettering himself through an understanding of God's forgiveness and the healing power of prayer.
The Bible says "God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8)
This inmate was permanently healed of smoking through prayer. As he explained it to me: "In one hand I had a religious book, in the other a cigarette. All at once I saw how contradictory this action was. On one hand I was trying to better myself, live and think healthier; on the other I had succumbed to an old habit that had plagued me for years."
He attributes this understanding as part of the outcome of prayer, freeing him up from any hazardous life styles. He was later released from a long-standing prison sentence.
The last I saw this man on the outside and on the right side of the law, he looked happy, healthy and had a whole new outlook on life.
The Scriptures are full of experiences of people saved by God's loving protection and redemptive mercies.
Yet, God's healing, guiding power is available today. It is nice to know that those who do not want to smoke can stop through prayer.
Seaward B. Grant is manager of Christian Science Committee on Publication for Hawai'i.
Expressions of Faith welcomes written works from pastors, priests, lay workers and other leaders in faith and spirituality. E-mail faith@honoluluadvertiser.com or call 525-8035. Articles submitted to The Advertiser may be published or distributed in print, electronic or other forms.
