instead of praying, wouldn't it make more sense to examine the situation rationally and realistically?

Actually I do that. But, I pray too. THe 2 things can go hand in hand.

:)

First, I get a little spiritual insight from the big man upstairs who also helps me clear my head.

THen, I analyze the situation to see what I can do to improve it.

If, I can't do anything personally... usually God steps in at some point to lend a hand.

God bless you. & thanks for the good question.

King James Version Pr 1:5 A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels, Pr 1:6 To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. Reference Bible Pr 1:5 A wise person will listen and take in more instruction, and a man of understanding is the one who acquires skillful direction, Pr 1:6 to understand a proverb and a puzzling saying, the words of wise persons and their riddles. These two verses from two different versions of the bible help us to appreciate that Almighty God Jehovah wants us to use our knowledge, wisdom and thinking ability which he has created in us so that we can rationally think and reason on situations and he has also given us the ability and privilege of prayer why shouldn't we use them together... Honestly there are times when we are unable to think rationally and that's when this scripture comes into play at Psalms 94:19 When anxieties overwhelmed me, You comforted and soothed me. Reference Bible Ps 94:19 When my disquieting thoughts became many inside of me, Your own consolations began to fondle my soul. King James Version Ps 94:19 In the multitude of my thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul. Prayer is talking things out with almighty God respectfully.

Thinking about things realistically can often be scary or depressing. People that pray don't like that so the talk to an imaginary guy to help them. It's kinda like kids when they have imaginary friends.

To the best of my knowledge, no minister has a "pay for pray" arrangement in their contract.

Makes sense. To you and I. But religiots are emotionally immature and don't want the responsibility.

You have a false presupposition that prayer and critical thought process or action are mutually exclusive, they are not.

You do not know my Pastor, so you are speaking out of ignorance.

Praying can be done without paying money.

I pray for your mother after I did her last night

Who says we can't do both?

sometimes