The Need Of Intensive Prayers

THE NEED OF INTENSIVE PRAYERS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: James 5:16

"Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."

Supporting Texts: Luke 18:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:17, Matthew 26:41, Jeremiah 33:3, Acts 12:5

INTRODUCTION:

Prayer is the life-wire of every believer. It is not merely a spiritual exercise but a divine lifeline through which we commune with God, enforce His will on earth, and overcome the forces of darkness. In a world of spiritual warfare, intense opposition, and daily challenges, prayer must become more than a routine—it must be passionate, persistent, and purposeful.

Intensive prayer goes beyond shallow utterances. It is prayer that is driven by faith, sustained by the Spirit, and focused on results. It is prayer that refuses to give up until heaven responds. Jesus Himself prayed intensely, especially in critical moments, setting the pattern for believers who desire to see divine intervention.

In this sermon, we will explain why intensive prayer is crucial for the Christian walk. We will examine its power to produce results, defeat spiritual enemies, align us with God’s will, and bring about revival and transformation.

1. INTENSIVE PRAYER PRODUCES POWERFUL RESULTS

When prayer is fervent and consistent, it brings tangible, supernatural outcomes.

a) God responds to earnest prayer

James 5:17-18 – Elijah prayed earnestly, and rain stopped and returned by his prayer.

b) Breakthrough often requires pressing in prayer

Daniel 10:12-13 – Daniel’s persistent prayer was heard from day one but delayed by spiritual resistance.

c) Intensive prayer brings healing and restoration

James 5:16 – The prayer of faith shall save the sick.

d) The heavens open to those who pray fervently

Luke 3:21 – As Jesus prayed, the heavens opened and the Holy Spirit descended.

Biblical Example: Hannah (1 Samuel 1:10-20)

She poured out her soul to God in bitterness and anguish—and God answered with the birth of Samuel.

2. INTENSIVE PRAYER DEFEATS SPIRITUAL FORCES

We are in a battle, and prayer is our spiritual weapon for victory.

a) Prayer confronts the powers of darkness

Ephesians 6:12 – We wrestle not against flesh and blood.

b) Fervent intercession breaks satanic holds

Acts 16:25-26 – Paul and Silas prayed, and prison doors were shaken open.

c) Persistent prayer weakens demonic resistance

Mark 9:29 – Some victories only come through prayer and fasting.

d) The devil fears a praying believer

Luke 22:31-32 – Jesus prayed for Peter so that his faith would not fail.

Biblical Example: The Church praying for Peter (Acts 12:5-11)

The early church engaged in continuous prayer, and God sent an angel to release Peter from prison.

3. INTENSIVE PRAYER BUILDS SPIRITUAL STRENGTH

The more we pray, the stronger we grow in faith and intimacy with God.

a) Prayer keeps the spiritual fire burning

Leviticus 6:13 – The fire must not go out on the altar.

b) It renews the inner man daily

2 Corinthians 4:16 – The inward man is renewed day by day.

c) Fervent prayer increases sensitivity to the Spirit

Romans 8:26 – The Spirit helps our infirmities and prays through us.

d) Intensive prayer builds faith and resilience

Jude 1:20 – Praying in the Holy Ghost builds up your most holy faith.

Biblical Example: Jesus in Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-44)

Jesus prayed earnestly in the garden before His crucifixion—His strength came through intense communion.

4. INTENSIVE PRAYER ENFORCES GOD’S WILL ON EARTH

God’s plans are often enforced through the prayers of His people.

a) Prayer aligns us with heaven’s agenda

Matthew 6:10 – Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

b) Through prayer, we birth revival and divine agenda

Acts 2:1-4 – The outpouring of the Holy Spirit came while they were in prayer.

c) Prayer opens doors for divine assignments

Colossians 4:3 – Paul asked for prayer so that God would open a door for the Word.

d) Prayer makes us co-labourers with God

2 Corinthians 6:1 – We work together with Him.

Biblical Example: Elijah on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:36-39)

Elijah prayed, and fire fell. His intense prayer turned a nation’s heart back to God.

5. INTENSIVE PRAYER BIRTHS REVIVAL AND SPIRITUAL AWAKENING

No true revival ever came without fervent and united prayer.

a) Prayer stirs the atmosphere for revival

2 Chronicles 7:14 – If My people... will pray... I will heal their land.

b) Hearts are stirred and renewed in the place of prayer

Psalm 51:10-12 – David prayed for restoration after his fall.

c) Nations are transformed when believers pray

Jonah 3:5-10 – Nineveh repented, and judgment was averted.

d) Prayer causes heaven to invade the earth

Acts 4:31 – After they prayed, the place was shaken, and they were filled with boldness.

Biblical Example: The Upper Room (Acts 1:14; Acts 2:1-4)