I used to believe the first and quickest prayer God will answer is the one you ask for people to help. It’s still true, and while I wish I prayed it as often as I used to, I’ve learned something new. You don’t even have to ask. You just have to pay attention to the world around you.

Several weeks ago, I was at the gym–a place that gives me great anxiety but makes me feel amazing when I leave. I’m usually in a hurry and grumpy about waiting for a machine because I just want to get it over with. I’m ready to be home the minute I get into the locker room. I never want to be there but want the results of having been. I’m sure that is the sentiment of many. Of all the names I could be called, a gym rat would never be one of them. (I wish I were addicted to going to the gym.)

I’m trying to learn to slow down, enjoy the time, and not feel so rushed to leave. This is challenging because I go straight from work–which I have to if I expect to go. Otherwise my pajamas are calling. And boy are they friendly.

One particular day, I was in the locker room, and I saw an elderly woman struggling. I offered help and she accepted. And then she said the one thing that completely slowed me down. She said “Thank you. God must have sent you to me today to help me.” My heart stopped. My mind stopped with it. I became a deer in headlights. I smiled, told her to have a good evening, and walked out into the weight room. It felt as though I were walking on the clouds. That was the highest, most humbling compliment I’ve ever received or will ever receive. I wanted to cry.

While working out, I began to think of those moments I’ve had throughout my life that brought on that same feeling. And I came to one conclusion: the greatest, most useful moments of my life weren’t on a stage or in front of a crowd–or even in front of others. They were simply moments in time where two souls were passing one another. They were chances for me to do God’s work, and it felt great. This is what life’s all about. Everything else is just noise.

I met that workout with mindfulness, intention, gratefulness, and humility. I slowed down, paid attention to my surroundings, focused on things that mattered, and in the end…had one of the best workouts I’d ever had.

Looking back now…I realize something. That elderly woman helped me more than I helped her. Her words carried me through that workout and the rest of the week. That was, without a doubt, a divine appointment. To God be the glory.

“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Philippians 2:3

May God give us eyes to see others even when we fail to pray. Amen.