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NASB | James 5:16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | James 5:16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another [your false steps, your offenses], and pray for one another, that you may be healed and restored. The heartfelt and persistent prayer of a righteous man (believer) can accomplish much [when put into action and made effective by God--it is dynamic and can have tremendous power]. |
Bible Question:
Dear Steve, I thought your answer was very good! I especially liked the last statement. If you don't mind, I would like to make an adjustment, and ask again. Can believer's prayers be ineffective? I know you touched on this, but I think this important question is pertinent to the church. Blessings in Jesus' name, charis |
Bible Answer: Yes - Our prayer can be ineffective. Prayer is more than asking. Look at the Model Prayer (Mat. 6:9-13). But, when we ask the barriers are ... a. First, we do not submit ourselves to God, asking according to His will (John 15:7). If we do this the rest of the list may not apply. b. We fail to ask. We don't take the time (Jam. 4:2). While He know what we need, He wants to hear from us. We also need to stop talking and listen to what He says; sometime in the Bible. c. We lack faith. We don't believe God can (Jam. 1:6-7). The problem is not witth God. d. We ask with the wrong motives (Jam. 4:2) e. We have sin (James 4:8,9; 5:15, 16). If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me (Psa. 66: 18). We are not obedient (1Jo. 3:22). f. We are not humble (Jam. 4:8-10). The Pharisee and publican (Luke 18:10-14). This is a short list. But, when I pray, I need to focus on Him. If in public, I am not talking to them or for their benifit. |