One pair of hands actually helping is worth more than a million pairs of hands clasped in prayer. Prayer is an excuse to stay comfortably at home while feeling like you are helping others. Prayer is nearly always a substitute for getting involved. Or, in the case of praying for the sick, a substitute for common sense. Prayer with fasting is often effective, if you don't cheat on the fasting and if what you are praying for is weight loss! If you want to help, unfold your hands and get involved!