The Higher Power can be seen as a Nurturing Parent that one can call on and pray to.  This is working the process not just in times of need but as part of oneself.  Otherwise we go back to fearful neediness and only asking when we need the back up.  To feel connected with the higher power in life generally is a special attachment.  It is like no other attachment as it contains a gentleness with it powerful presence.  Something that us a humans struggle with as power is often mis-used.  Its almost like a spiritual role model in how to be a safe, gentle and powerful force and presence appropriately.  The nurturing parent part of the higher power does not justify us and rescue.  The nurturing parent part of the higher power is empathic, compassionate and supportive.