Text: James 5:13-16
Memory Verse: Luke 18:1
INTRODUCTION: Prayer is not an option for believers, everyone have been commanded to pray always (1Thess 5:17). Prayer is not just about saying what we want but allowing the Holy Spirit to help prayer rightly.
OUTLINES:
1. WHAT IS EFFECTUAL PRAYER?
2. WHY PRAYERS DON’T GET ANSWERS
3. HOW TO PRAY EFFECTUALLY
1. WHAT IS EFFECTUAL PRAYER?
a) It is prayer offered based on the understanding of God’s will Matt 6:9-10
b) It is the prayer offered from a pure conscience i.e a pure heart Acts 24:16
c) Praying according to God’s word
2. WHY PRAYERS DON'T GET ANSWERS
a) They pray to satisfy their selfish desires James 4:3
b) Lack of knowledge of God’s word and will Jn 15:7
c) Praying with unforgiveness in the heart Mark 11:25-26
d) Praying to show off Matt 6:5-6
3. HOW TO PRAY EFFECTUALLY
a) Be free from every form of sin Jn 9:31
b) Be definite in your prayer Matt 6:7, Mark 10:51-52
c) Pray with faith Mark 11:24
d) Be more conscious of God’s will Matt 6:33
e) Let the Holy Spirit guide you through Rom 8:26, Jn 14:26.
CONCLUSION: God is still in the business of answering the prayers of His children when channeled according to His will