Marie’s daily verse: He who guards his mouth and his tongue guards himself from troubles (Proverbs 21:23).

DAILY DEVOTION, April 15, 2024

The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective (James 5:16).

Prayer is the most powerful tool we possess as Christians. While we can only be in one place at a time, our prayers can travel worldwide. While I cannot personally do anything for my former church family in Decatur, IL, my prayers can travel to Decatur with no problem. I cannot do much personally for my children who live far from me, but my prayers can reach them.

James presents us with a qualification. Effective prayers come from a righteous person. In one respect, I think this leaves me out! I do not see myself as a righteous person. I pray for forgiveness regularly. I habitually partake of the Lord’s Supper, which reminds me of my need for forgiveness. Here is my hope from the words of Paul. “…and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith…” (Philippians 3:9). If I have faith in Christ, God declares me righteous! Those who trust in Jesus are forgiven and said to be righteous in the eyes of God.

That means I am eligible to offer powerful and effective prayers. All who trust in Jesus have this same privilege. Let’s use it!

Father, thank You for allowing me to participate with You in changing the world. Thank You for the privilege of prayer. Remind me regularly to use this tool to bring blessings into the lives of others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.