Comments on: Wait, What? Should We Add “Thoughts and Prayers” to the 2022 Banished Words List?

By: Richella J Parham

Richella J Parham — Thu, 11 Aug 2022 13:40:47 +0000

Lisa, this is SUCH a clever post! And thought-provoking. I love it.

The phrase “thoughts and prayers” has certainly been overused, hasn’t it? It seems that we started saying that as a way to communicate something lovely, but now it has become cliché, so another way to say it would be more meaningful. I appreciate your practical suggestions.

By: Ashley

Ashley — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 15:35:41 +0000

I don’t like the word “thoughts” with prayers. Thoughts really don’t mean anything. But if you’re a believer, then you are praying to the one who can actually change things. If the person isn’t a believer, you can always say that you are, and then ask to pray for them, if you’re there with them. If you’re not there, then pray for them right then. And sometimes, God does call you to do something. Sometimes He just asks you to be faithful to pray. And that’s still super important.
But again, don’t like the word thoughts with prayers. Maybe, you’ve been on my mind and I’ve been praying for you?

By: Tea With Jennifer

Tea With Jennifer — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 00:24:29 +0000

Thank you Lisa.
I think it’s a lovely sentiment to say if it’s actually followed through!
For we can never under estimate the power of prayer especially requested in the name of Jesus. ?
Blessings,
Jennifer

By: Carol

Carol — Mon, 08 Aug 2022 00:10:38 +0000

Your post is thought provoking. I appreciated the suggested actions. I am learning to offer to pray with my neighbor, Bible study partner, sister, church member as the need arises. I like the suggestion to follow-up.

By: David

David — Sun, 07 Aug 2022 22:21:32 +0000

I loved this post Lisa! Thank you for cheering me up!

Over here (Godless UK) “thoughts and prayers” is mostly used (on Twitter at least – where dead cliché comes back to life) to mock someone earnestly complaining of some “first world problem” (delayed train, tepid coffee, etc). Of course I can’t find an example now …

https://twitter.com/pippyg82/status/1228055376509181953

But yes, we should be the answer to someone’s prayer, have the faith that God can use us in that way.

By: Lydia C. Lee

Lydia C. Lee — Sun, 07 Aug 2022 21:06:11 +0000

Really interesting post. I would assume for most people it’s like ‘sending my condolences’ or ‘hugs to you’ It’s saying something but doing nothing. It’s a passive comment. “How can I best support you?’ and “What do you need right now?” are active. They will require effort on the part of the person offering ‘thoughts and prayers’ (or they might. They might not). I think the intent is good of the ‘thoughts and prayer’ person but it’s just laziness to mask uncomfortableness with the situation (like ‘sending my condolences’). If someone said it to me, I’d just assume their intent is good but ignore them.

By: Lauren Sparks

Lauren Sparks — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 19:48:23 +0000

I like your reframes. It’s the “thoughts” part of that phrase that has always bothered me. I am not helped at all by someone’s thoughts and it does feel very dismissive to me. When someone says they are praying for me, I know my God is listening and is working in the situation. Someone’s thoughts have never helped anyone. So pray for me – and then follow up if you are able. But prayer is work. And I’ll always accept it.

By: Jean Wise

Jean Wise — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 23:49:16 +0000

I am glad you fully discussed this instead of just throwing this phrase out. I guess I feel a little possessive since I do use this phrase and do keep that person in my thoughts and prayers – it is Not just words but I do realize it is overused and more out of habit. I do like how the idea of action as a follow up. Very thought provoking and words that I continue to ponder!!

By: Joanne Viola

Joanne Viola — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 21:06:31 +0000

This was a thought provoking post, Lisa. I sat thinking on it for a while before hitting “reply”. My desire is that my words be said with authenticity. May the words I speak be heartfelt, may I follow through on them, so others know they are valued.

By: Donna

Donna — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 20:06:17 +0000

Love the way you plumbed the depths of this topic Lisa. I will not miss ANY of the banished words. I agree “thoughts and prayers” sounds empty most of the time, and agree with Lynn, what’s with the “thoughts” and how is that helpful?

Actions always have spoken louder than words, and in this age of cyber relationship, we may become lazy and resort to cliches and easy words to throw out.

“But I’m more for ‘seeing” people and ensuring they know I see them IN their pain. I like to offer to pray in the moment with the person, and if online, I include my prayer right in my comment or reply so they can have it to keep.

I also like to let people know “I am here for you”, whether that means sitting quietly with you, listening to you, or holding your hand; maybe even crying with you.