Prayer is something that we all agree is important, but something that not many of us have mastered. Prayer is work, hard work. And without prayer there is no real power.
While there is a lot that James can say to us about prayer, he gives us three principles about developing a faithful and productive prayer life as we patiently await the return of the Lord Jesus.
I am exhorted to pray in all experiences of life.
“Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” James 5:13-14
I am given the for effective prayer.
“And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” James 5:15-16
I am given an of effective prayers.
“Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit.” James 5:17-18
Prayer works…
- when it gives us a greater sense of the majesty and glory of God.
- when it leads us to true repentance after confessing sin.
- when it leads us to profound thanks for everything we encounter, be it good or bad.
- when it leads us to pray for others.
- when it leads us to deeper intimacy with Christ.
- when it leads us to submit to God’s sovereign will.