Gentlemen, I have lived a long time and am convinced that God governs in the affairs of men. If a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid? I move that prayer imploring the assistance of Heaven be held every morning before we proceed to business. Benjamin Franklin
It is impossible to live the life of a disciple without definite times of secret prayer. You will find that the place to enter in is in your business, as you walk along the streets, in the ordinary ways of life, when no one dreams you are praying, and the reward comes openly, a revival here, a blessing there. Oswald Chambers
The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:16
There comes a time in all of our lives when we are called to prove what we believe. These days – and certainly those we face – will afford us that opportunity. What will your actions prove?
Do you believe that the “empire” you are stewarding can rise without God’s aid? Do you believe that you can be a disciple without definite times of prayer? Do you believe that the effective prayer of a righteous name avails much?
Every Christian knows that prayer is powerful (at least it’s supposed to be), and nothing of heavenly value is possible without prayer. So why do we struggle to pray, both individually and corporately? Why are we so unsure about the effectiveness of our prayers? Why does it seem that so many of our prayers go unanswered? I will tell you why: Satan is trying to defeat us.
The first strategic move in every war is to cut off communications between the forces on the ground and the central command center. Consequently, much energy and intelligence is focused on keeping the lines of communication open. The situation is no different in the war we are fighting against our greatest enemy, Satan. We must be fiercely diligent to defend what we have been given: The means for effective communication – and relationship – with God.
It is no coincidence that God has made prayer man’s most powerful weapon in the battle for the kingdom. This is the place where God is most intimate in revealing His plans and encouraging His children. As we battle with Him through prayer, He establishes His relationship with us. There is no more important thing we can do in our search for joyful, Spirit-filled ministry.
Furthermore, joyful, Spirit-filled ministry is impossible without the effective fervent prayer of a righteous man, woman or child. The difference between ineffective prayer and prayer that avails much is vast. The promises God has attached to prayer are beyond all that we can think or imagine.
God does very little in the life of a man who does not pray well. All the “greater than” things are done in and through the righteous one that will fervently pray the Father’s will.
Successful leaders act on their beliefs. Faith without works is dead! If you had to choose between meeting with God and meeting with a customer, who would you put off? Your answer to this question will reveal much about your faith; and your attitude toward prayer. If you believe in the importance of prayer, you will make it a priority.
Marketplace Ministry Tip:
Don’t risk missing the most important meeting of your day. Priorities get put on calendars. Block off the time; and don’t be late. Get help if you need it. Prayer is important to us at inLight Consulting. Please contact me (rob@inlightconsulting.com) if we can pray for you, or help you become a leader that effectively and fervently prays.
Humbly yours and forever His,
