James 5:16 (NIV)
16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
Is Jesus your last resort? Do you try to do everything you can think of on your own and, when that is unsuccessful, turn to Jesus? What would it take to get you to Him sooner? ’Does prayer work anyway? Will He even listen to me? Let prayer be your first response, not your last resort.
James tells us to confess and pray. When we confess, we let go of the sin and the guilt it causes. Guilt is a heavy burden to carry. Our prayer should be for guidance that we will be lead on a path that avoids future sin. James tells us that the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. Do you see yourself as righteous? Maybe that’s the challenge.
Many of us don’t think God will answer our prayers or that He even listens. That is just not true. God still answers prayers today. He answered mine last Thursday before I even finished praying. When I prayed for a situation offering forgiveness to someone, God answered by granting another prayer of mine. Even though we may not see ourselves as worthy, Jesus stands as our intercessor to the Father seeking our best solution. Hebrews 7:25 (NIV) says “25 Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” On your own, you may not be worthy but you are not on your own! Why wait so long to go to Him? He actually is there waiting for you when you pray.
Another way to make your prayer life more effective is to offer prayers of thanksgiving for all the good things that are in your life already. You have much to be thankful for so go to God with praise and thanksgiving. And it does not have to be fancy words. Just talk to Him. He loves you and wants to hear from you. He will answer your prayer. You may not like the answer but it will be what is best for you. God wants to bless you today. If you are not sure how to pray or what to ask for, that’s OK. Ask Him! His Holy Spirit will help you in your prayers by guiding you. Don’t wait! Keep God in the forefront of your life. Let Him be your guide and you will enjoy the journey. Jesus can be your guide rather than your last resort.
Lord, we thank You that You stand ready to intercede for us always. Remind us of Your presence helping us to come to You quickly. Help us build the habit of walking in Your ways. Keep us on the path You have designed for us. In Your name we pray! Amen!