Effective Prayer

Today's full reading: James 5:1-20

"Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." (James 5:16)

Each time I read these words they strike me a little deeper. It is undeniable; there is something to it. Prayer really does work. Prayer makes a difference. For the ultimate glory of Christ, God has chosen to involve us in his work through the ministry of prayer.

As I grow in my relationship with Christ I am learning a lot about prayer. One thing I have come to believe is that we do not worship a God who will spoil us - making us into rich brats. No, our heavenly Father knows best and will only give us those things that are according to his will.

Also, we should not presume to have God figured out. There are aspects of God that are futile to attempt to understand (such as his sovereignty). However, there is much we can know. And, the instructions concerning prayer are very knowable.

Today, as an act of worship, pray according to James 5:16. Confess your sins to the Lord and to a friend you can trust and who will help hold you accountable to turn from those sins. Pray in faith - believing God will hear your prayers and respond according to his will.