The ever-burning question about prayer in college. Why should we pray? Around a year ago, I had written a similar post asking the same question. Today, I wish to revisit that question, with a more mature and experienced mind so that I can attempt to better answer it.
One idea that comes to mind regarding prayer in college is the image of a student nervous about his or her exam scores, making deals with God such as promising to change his behaviour in exchange for good grades on the exams. I hate to admit that I, too, was guilty of doing that at times. However, as time went on, I grew to realise that my relationship with God was meant for more than just a business deal. Today, I view my relationship with God to be very similar to my relationship with one of my best friends- God is someone that will always be there for me during my good times and my bad times, will always understand my troubles and will even be able to give me the strength to overcome such obstacles in life.
I understand that it sounds rather odd to consider a God or any ‘higher power’ as one of my equals, but for some reason, putting God on a pedestal as the ‘Almighty’ doesn’t feel right. This is not to say that those that believe otherwise are wrong – these are merely my thoughts and opinions. I feel that because of this newfound friendship with God, praying doesn’t really feel like a chore any more, but rather, a conversation with a close friend.
Now that I look back, I can see that a lot of my thoughts have definitely changed from a year ago.
What are your thoughts on the idea of having a friendship with God?
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The idea of a friendship with God reminds me of the story of Mirabai, who, from childhood, took Krishna to be her beloved lord. Although many interpretations focus on the “lord” aspect – a devotion that clearly puts Mirabai below and beneath the all-powerful; I like to consider the notion that Mirabai saw Krishna as her closest friend, who is there when she needs someone most (he indeed saves her life).
This Mirabai is one whose tale inspired me to consider God a friend, a companion, as well. It strikes me as very different from the Judaic God who is not a friend, but an awesome, holier-than-thou (literally!), protector to be feared and obeyed.
One question that arises with the idea of God being a friend is that of a power struggle. In our world, it tends to be difficult (though not impossible) for those of extremely different levels of power and authority to be friends: parents and children, teachers and students, employees and employers, etc. If we indeed see God as all-powerful, which we are not, then how can we overcome that infinite difference (if a finite difference is hard enough) to form a friendship?
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