FIVE ESSENTIALS FOR POWERFUL PRAYERS
Introduction
A. Christians believe in the power and the effectiveness of prayer. James 5:16-18 (894)
B. James used the prophet Elias (Elijah) as an example of prayers that produced an effect.
C. Let’s focus on five essentials for powerful prayers.
I. We must be righteous for our prayers to have power. James 5:16c
A. God doesn’t answer the prayers of people who won’t hear Him. Proverbs 28:9 (502);
Isaiah 59:1-2 (551)
B. God will hear the prayers of those who are seeking to know and understand truth.
1. Cornelius is an example. Acts 10:1-5 (810)
II. We must pray in faith. Hebrews 11:6 (889)
A. We must believe that God’s answer is best (Isaiah 55:8-9) and accept His answer.
B. We close our prayers with ‘Amen.’
1. “Amen’ is used to express solemn ratification (an expression of faith) or hearty
approval (as an assertion), according to Merriam-Webster Dictionary. According
to Wikipedia, verily, truly, it is true and let it be.
III. We must have an attitude of forgiveness for our prayers to be powerful.
Ephesians 4:22-23,32 (865)
IV. We must have an obedient spirit and pray according to God’s will.
A. Jesus teaches His disciples to pray this way. Matthew 6:9-10 (707)
B. Jesus set the example. Luke 22:39-42 (775); John 5:30 (783)
V. For our prayers to have power, we must pray by the authority of Jesus.
A. Consider: Philippians 2:8-11 (868); Matthew 28:18 (730); John 14:13-14 (794)
B. Praying in the name (by the authority) of Jesus makes our prayer genuine.
Closing: Prayer is a spiritual blessing that can be powerful and beneficial. I hope these
essentials will be used to enrich your prayers.