Effectual Prayers

Effectual is not a word we commonly use in English. Instead we use the word effective.

However, effectual holds a different meaning when it comes to defining the quality of prayer. Merriam-Webster online dictionary defines effectual as producing or able to produce a desired effect. On the other hand, effective has the same meaning except for one notable difference. For something to be effective it must successfully produce a desired result or fulfill a specific function.

We read in the book of James, "Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." (James 5:16, KVJ).

Prayer should always be effectual, but not all prayer produces success or makes a tidy package. Why? Simply prayer is not a means to an end (namely our selfish goals and desires) nor is it a function as if it's a process or duty to perform.

Prayer is simply communication to God. He does not judge us on how long we spend praying, how we speak or don't speak, if we raise our hands or kneel in His presence. True prayer flows from the Spirit out of the heart before words are ever formed. And sadly,words often fail to express the deepest yearnings in our soul. Perhaps it's why His wordless groans is more effectual than a thousand words. It says, "In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans." (Romans 8:26, NIV).

Beloved, we may not see immediate results to our prayers. We may even die praying the same prayer we uttered all our lives as we pass into His kingdom. But do not fear, my brothers or sisters. Effectual prayers are rooted in His righteousness. For every prayer a righteous man or woman prays - is a prayer Christ hears and answers.

It's not a righteousness accomplished by our own striving or performing but one purchased by His blood. That is why we can boldly come before His throne with our petitions and know He hears us. We are righteous before God so we can pray effectual prayers to move His heart and change our world.