PRAYER OF THE RIGHTEOUS IS EFFECTIVE
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: James 5:16
"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
Supporting Texts:
1 Thessalonians 5:17, Luke 18:1, 2 Chronicles 7:14, Mark 11:24, Psalm 34:15
INTRODUCTION
Prayer is one of the most powerful tools in the life of a believer. It is not just communication with God but a weapon that brings transformation, restoration, and divine intervention. James 5:16 tells us that the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces significant results. This means that not all prayers yield impact; only the prayers of those who live righteously and pray fervently will create change.
The Bible is filled with examples of people whose prayers moved the hand of God and changed situations. In this sermon, we will explore the power of effective prayer and how the righteousness of a believer enhances its impact.
1. UNDERSTANDING EFFECTIVE PRAYER
Not all prayers carry power; only those prayed according to God's will.
a) Prayer Must Be Fervent and Passionate.
Prayer should come from a place of deep conviction and persistence (Luke 22:44).
b) Prayer Must Be Based on God's Word.
Prayers rooted in Scripture have divine backing (John 15:7).
c) Prayer Must Be Made in Faith.
Doubt hinders the power of prayer (Mark 11:24).
d) Prayer Must Align with God’s Will.
God answers prayers that align with His purpose (1 John 5:14-15).
e) Biblical Example: Elijah’s Fervent Prayer.
Elijah prayed earnestly, and the rain ceased for three and a half years (James 5:17).
2. THE RIGHTEOUSNESS CONNECTION IN PRAYER
A righteous life strengthens the impact of prayer.
a) Righteousness Brings Divine Access.
The prayers of the righteous reach God’s throne (Psalm 34:15).
b) Sin Hinders Effective Prayer.
Unrepented sin blocks divine response (Isaiah 59:1-2).
c) Holiness Invites God’s Presence.
God dwells with those who live in righteousness (Hebrews 12:14).
d) A Righteous Heart Aligns with God’s Desires.
Those who walk righteously pray according to God’s will (Proverbs 15:29).
e) Biblical Example: Daniel’s Righteous Prayers.
Daniel’s prayers brought angelic visitation and national deliverance (Daniel 10:12-13).
3. THE IMPACT OF EFFECTIVE PRAYER
Prayer is a spiritual force that brings divine intervention.
a) Prayer Changes Situations and Circumstances.
Hannah’s prayer reversed her barrenness (1 Samuel 1:10-20).
b) Prayer Brings Healing and Restoration.
Hezekiah’s prayer extended his life (Isaiah 38:1-5).
c) Prayer Unlocks Supernatural Provision.
Elijah prayed, and God sent provision through ravens (1 Kings 17:1-6).
d) Prayer Establishes Divine Protection.
Daniel’s prayer protected him in the lions' den (Daniel 6:10-22).
e) Biblical Example: The Early Church’s Prayers.
The church prayed, and Peter was miraculously released from prison (Acts 12:5-11).
4. HINDRANCES TO EFFECTIVE PRAYER
Certain factors can weaken the power of prayer.
a) Unbelief and Doubt.
A doubtful heart cannot receive from God (James 1:6-7).
b) Unforgiveness and Bitterness.
God expects us to forgive before He hears our prayers (Mark 11:25).
c) Prayerlessness and Spiritual Weakness.
Lack of consistent prayer leads to spiritual defeat (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
d) Praying with Wrong Motives.
Selfish prayers do not get divine answers (James 4:3).
e) Biblical Example: The Pharisee’s Ineffective Prayer.
The self-righteous Pharisee’s prayer was rejected, while the humble tax collector was justified (Luke 18:10-14).
5. KEYS TO POWERFUL AND EFFECTIVE PRAYER
To pray with impact, we must follow biblical principles.
a) Pray with a Pure Heart.
Holiness enhances prayer effectiveness (Psalm 24:3-4).
b) Pray with Boldness and Confidence.
Approach God’s throne boldly (Hebrews 4:16).
c) Pray with Thanksgiving.
Gratitude activates answers (Philippians 4:6-7).
d) Pray in the Spirit.
The Holy Spirit strengthens our prayers (Romans 8:26).
e) Biblical Example: Jesus’ Prayer Life.
Jesus consistently prayed and received divine strength and guidance (Mark 1:35, Luke 6:12).
CONCLUSION
The prayers of the righteous carry great impact. If you want your prayers to be powerful and effective, you must be fervent, pray according to God’s will, and live righteously. Like Elijah, Daniel, and Hannah, your prayers can change situations and unlock divine intervention. Develop a strong prayer life, remove any hindrances, and watch God move mightily in your life.
PRAYER POINTS
1. Lord, increase my passion and commitment to prayer.
2. Every hindrance to my prayers, be destroyed in Jesus' name.
3. Father, cleanse my heart and make my prayers powerful.
4. Holy Spirit, help me to pray according to God's will.
5. Every spirit of doubt and unbelief, be cast out of my life.
6. Lord, let my prayers bring supernatural breakthroughs.
7. I reject spiritual dryness—ignite my prayer altar, Lord!
8. Father, release angelic assistance in response to my prayers.
9. Let my prayers break every chain of limitation in my life.
10. I receive divine answers to all my petitions in Jesus' name.
