Have you ever asked a friend to pray for you? Have you ever prayed for someone else? Hopefully, everyone’s answer to both questions is a resounding, “yes!” It is a natural human instinct to seek help from others, and sincere, heartfelt prayer is the greatest means of Christian help we can provide for others. While intercessory prayer may often seem like a simple act of generosity or kindness, it is, in fact, not optional.  As followers of Christ, we have a duty to pray for others. Jesus himself commands, “love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you” (Matt 5:44) and interceding for others is one way we live out his command to love our neighbor.