Previous

Next

Ask a Question

Summary of Question:	Intercessory Prayer & Waheguru's Will.
Category:	Meditation
Date Posted:	Tuesday, 12/18/2001 10:56 AM MST

Sat Siri Akaal, friends.

In doing my morning prayers I keep seeing lines in Japji & elsewhere about God's pre-ordained will and that He determines all things that happen, also that we must accept these things as divinely commanded. Does this mean then that it is wrong to pray for others? Let's say if a person is ill with cancer or needs surgery, or if someone needs a job soon, is it to be considered trying to change the mind and will of Waheguru? I even feel the need to pray for my cat who is diabetic! Can we at least hope for answers to prayer for others, if it is appropriate to do so? I know that a lot of the "miracle-making" seen among televised & sensationalized ministers is a bunch of hooey and showmanship for money. Is it wrong then to ask of God himself to give graces and healing to those who need it; or better to ask for the strength to accept His will without

*******
REPLY
*******
Sat SIri Akaal. This is an eternal question. Prayers are how people connect to God in their hearts. It is not really about trying to change destiny or Waheguru's mind. Rather, heartfelt prayers on behalf of another serve that person's soul and spirit and give them the grace and strength to accomplish what they are doing. But prayer has also created miracles, because Waheguru in his wisdom creates situations that involve many people at once. So a very sick person who receives many prayers from those who love her may get well even if death is written all over her face! The people who prayed for that one are blessed because they served through prayer and hope.

The Lord is merciful, so prayer can change the path of one's life. There have actually been studies done recently on the effects of prayer. And in 1956, a study was conducted at the University of Redlands (California) about the powerful effect of prayer. So it can serve, believe me. What is important for the ones praying is DON'T be attached to results. Don't be attached to getting what YOU pray for. Sometimes I find it is best to pray for one's highest truth,and let Waheguru figure the rest out. Sometimes I pray that someone be healed and realize that even if the person dies, they received healing in their SPIRIT. Waheguru does not always give us exactly what we pray for, and sometimes He does in such a way that we don't realize we got it! But don't stop praying. Pray and then TURN IT OVER to Waheguru.
Guru ang sang,
-DKK