Years ago my friend Steve introduced me to the practice of offering 10-second prayers. A pastor who has built numerous churches by focusing on outreach, Steve discovered that asking someone—especially a stranger—“May I pray with you?” almost always resulted in a “No, thank you.” But when he offered a 10-second prayer, a yes was much more common. The promise of a brief prayer seemed to disarm people and assuage their fears of an awkward situation.
Encouraged by Steve’s example, I tried it. It worked. I can’t boast a 100 percent success rate, but I did discover that people welcome and appreciate a short, purposeful prayer, even in public settings.
On one occasion, my church was giving a concert in a park, and people stopped to listen. I noticed a woman standing alone by a lamppost, tears streaming down her face. I approached and asked if there was anything I could help her with. She shook her head and started to turn away. I asked if she’d like me to pray a 10-second prayer for her.
“What’s that?” she asked.
“It’s just a short prayer for God to bless you.”
The woman nodded and told me a bit about her situation, not that I would need to know her health struggles and financial needs to pray for her. I listened, then asked if she would be more comfortable if we kept our eyes open while I prayed. She nodded. I said, “God, you heard everything she just told me. I know you love her. Please help her and bless her, amen.”
It was the only time I saw that woman. I don’t think she ever came to my church. But I believe that our 10-second prayer together had some effect. Maybe it lightened her load that day. Maybe it brought her a ray of hope. Maybe that short prayer was answered in amazing ways.
I’ve prayed many more 10-second prayers since then. With a pair of hikers who’d lost their way on a trail. With a recovering addict who had invited his girlfriend to church and was hoping she would show up. With an aspiring writer who was feeling overwhelmed and insecure at a conference.
Over the years, I’ve been surprised at how readily people consent to 10-second prayers—and how even people with no religious affiliation (or even interest) agree to them. The offer has been accepted more often than it has not. And even when my offer is declined, the other person usually seems appreciative.
Why not try it yourself? If you see someone who’s hurting or who seems lonely, offer them a 10-second prayer. If someone shares a tale of woe, ask if they’d like you to pray a 10-second prayer. If the person is a stranger, say something like, “I know you don’t know me, but may I pray a 10-second prayer for you?”
If they agree, make sure to stick to your promise and keep the prayer short. As you part, you might also tell the person that you’ll keep praying, silently, as you go on your way. I hope your 10-second prayers open many doors—and hearts.
For more inspiring stories, subscribe to Guideposts magazine.
