Prayer Matters!

The verse for today is from James 5:16.

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

James wasn’t one for wasted words. He was a straight shooter, a tell-it-like-it-is kind of writer. And when he spoke about prayer, he meant business. Prayer, to James, wasn’t a nice sentiment or a hopeful wish—it was power.

Think about it. The God of the universe, the One who spoke the stars into place, invites us to talk to Him. Not as beggars, but as beloved children. Not with uncertainty, but with the assurance that our words matter. James says that prayer isn’t just a ritual—it’s effective. It changes things. It moves the hand of God in ways we can’t always see, but in ways that matter.

Elijah, James reminds us in the verses just before this one, was just a man like us (James 5:17). Yet, when he prayed, the heavens shut, and the rain stopped. When he prayed again, the rain returned. Was it Elijah’s power? No, it was God’s. But Elijah prayed with faith, and faith fuels prayer.

So, what’s on your heart today? A burden too big to carry? A need too great to solve? Take it to the One who listens. And don’t just say a prayer—believe in its power. James tells us that when a righteous person prays, something happens. Things shift. Hearts change. Doors open.

Pray boldly. Pray expectantly. Because prayer isn’t just words—it’s the power of heaven unleashed.

I’m Lonnie Davis, and these are thoughts worth thinking.