"Prayer and Action Go Hand in Hand "Prayer and action go hand in hand" (Nehemiah 4:17). I remember the frustration experienced in my home because of homework. Each day my kids would return from school, we would argue over when and where and how to do their nightly assignments. The ordeal stressed us and caused family strife. I decided to take it to God in prayer. I hoped that God would change my childrens' attitudes so that they would look forward to doing their homework.This, however, was not the case. I learned that although I can pray to God and ask Him to help I must also be willing to be part of the solution. I can't just pray and then throw up my hands and carry on with my day. I can ignore the fear and worry but I still need to be willing to take action. I believe it was Joyce Meyer who said, "Don't react, act." So I don't need to react with ranting, raving, whining and nagging. I must rely on God's guidance and proceed with a solid plan to resolve this homework issue. God often answers prayer through people. He can and will divinely interject but usually He uses people who are willing and obedient. I can pray for wisdom and knowledge but I must also act upon that knowledge and "do" something. It's not enough for me to say, "Dear Lord, help my child to do homework" without listening for His answer and being open to His guidance. We devised a homework system through listening to the wisdom of others and spending time in quiet reflection with God. I realize that although my plan is working well now, I may need to change it in the future. As our family's needs change I can ask God for His guidance and His wisdom. Then I must be open and listen for it. God wants to answer our prayers but He wishes to work though His creation, not impose His will upon it. Prayer is intimacy ~ Elsie Montgomery"