KEY SCRIPTURE: James 5:17 KJV” Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months”.

God used Elijah to accomplish so much, because he was a man of prayer. The scripture described him as a man with similar passions or feelings like us. This suggests that we can also do what he did. This very type or form of prayer is called the travailing prevailing prayer. It has its unique principles for operation. The following verse describes how Elijah prayed, and it has become an example for anyone who wishes to experience God’s supernatural provisions. He was extra bold because whatever he did was instructed by the Lord. All these was as a result of his diligence in prayer. James 5:16b AMP …….. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].

The above verse states certain requirements necessary for God’s power to be made available through a travailing prayer. The word prayer is the Greek word ‘proseuchomai’. It also means turning your desire or wish towards God. James 5:16, reveals the following.

1. Effective prayer must be heartfelt. Your prayer is ineffective, if your desire is not involved in your prayer. Praying and doing other things at the same time makes the prayer ineffective. One must be focused on what he is saying and must strongly desire for its fulfillment.

2. The prayer must be continuous, till the answer comes. 1Kings 18:43 KJV “And said to his servant, Go up now, look toward the sea. And he went up, and looked, and said, There is nothing. And he said, Go again seven times”. Seven means perfect or complete will of God.

3. The prayer must be made with an expectation of the answer.

God is forever faithful. He has promised to make power available in response to such a prayer Mat 7:8 KJV” For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened”. Praying this way comes forth freely from one who is consumed with a desire to see the glory of God. It cannot be made by selfish people who are consumed by their personal advantages. Be consumed with love for God, and a love for His glory, as Elijah was.

CONFESSION

My prayers constantly reach the throne of Heaven I pray with all my heart, and do not give up. The Lord constantly shows His kindness by answering and manifesting His power.

FURTHER STUDIES

Matthew 7:7 KJV “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you”

Luke 22:44 KJV” And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground”.