SUNDAY October 10, 2021
Is Your Prayer Life Effectual?
The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.
James 5:16
What are some of the practical things we can do to make our prayer life effective? Christians must first realize that as they pray, they are entering into the Holies of Holies––God’s throne room. Although they can come boldly into His presence (Hebrews 4:16), they are to have the right attitude of humility and godly reverence.
The Apostle Paul spoke of prayer as a spiritual weapon against the enemy: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit... (Ephesians 6:18). He gave us insight into the most effective position to pray––standing (Ephesians 6:11). Other positions can be used while praying––sitting, kneeling or bowing down––but lying down to pray is a dangerous position. As you become comfortable, all of a sudden you will find yourself slipping into a deep, deep mediation––sleep! Sleepiness will cause your prayers to be ineffective.
The Apostle James also knew prayer had the capability to be a very effective weapon. The word effective in the Greek language means “to put forth power, be operative, to work.” Interestingly, effective prayer will bring a man or woman into direct alignment with the will of God.
Every day of our lives we can engage in personal prayer. I like to take walks when I pray. In the evening on a clear night, as I walk and talk to the Lord, I find my prayers to be most effective. There is less noise hardly any distractions as I pray just between the Lord and me. Some people find a quiet place where they can pray and lift up their hands in surrender. Prayer should come naturally from our hearts. It is good to have your Bible with you so God can speak to you through the Scriptures.
Your prayers do not have to be shared with other people. You can pray to God in secret, and He will do a tremendous work and reward you openly (Matthew 6:6). There is power in prayer. God hears our prayers, and He has placed around us a defense against Satan’s schemes.
It is the effectual, fervent prayer that influences God.
~E.M. Bounds~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
