As we wrap up this week’s devotions on “confessing your trespasses to one another,” let’s focus on the latter part of James 5:16– “the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.” A righteous person is “right with God.” So, how is this possible? “We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are” (Romans 3:22).
Now, let’s unpack the word “avails.” Check out this word in James 5:16 cited above. Hold on tight—I’m going to throw a handful of definitions your way. This word means to “produce an advantage,” “serve in a useful way,” “be able or capable,” or “have the power.” Therefore, one who is forgiven and in right standing with God can pray in a useful, powerful, advantageous manner, and receive excellent results.
Slowly read the following scriptures:
“For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.” (I Peter 3:12)
“If I had cherished sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened; but God has surely listened and has heard my prayer. Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me!” (Psalm 66:18-20)
“If anyone turns a deaf ear to my instruction, even their prayers are detestable.” (Prov. 28:9)
Do you desire for God to hear your prayers? Confession of and repentance from sin is the way to go. “Effective, fervent prayer” rests in the heart of believers who desire the will of God to be seen in their lives.