Joshua 3; Hosea 11:12 to 14:9; Luke 20:20 to 21:4
The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:16 NKJV
Effective praying requires knowing God. Why did Elijah pray for a drought? He had observed the nation’s condition and because of their disobedience to God, he (and the Lord) wanted “healing”. Elijah’s prayer was effective (had power) because He was thinking God’s thoughts. Elijah wasn’t condescending and self-righteous; he’d suffer the same drought as the people. Prayer for God to act consistent with His revealed character is powerful. Prayer is not to accomplish my will, but God’s. In the context, powerful prayer is for the benefit of fellow believers. May we pray fervently and effectively for one another’s spiritual prosperity. —David W. Oliver
Revive Thy work, O Lord! Create soul-thirst for Thee,
And hungering for the Bread of Life, O may our spirits be! —A. Midlane