THE PRAYERS OF RIGHTEOUS PEOPLE

                                                         James 5:16-18 (894)

  Introduction

      A.  Prayer is a powerful force because it can accomplish great results.  V16

      B.  God doesn’t listen to everybody’s prayers, but He does listen to the prayers

            of righteous people. V16

      C.  Let’s focus on several qualities that are needed for our prayers to be effective

            and avail much.

  I.  We must pray with confidence.

      A.  The prophet Elijah is an example.  Vv17-18; 1 Kings 17:1-2 (292); 18:1,41-45

      B.  Question?  James 1:6-8 (891); Hebrews 4:14-16 (884)

II.  We must pray with  commitment.

      A.  Abraham is an example.  Genesis 22:1-3,7-8,11-13 (16)

      B.  Question?  2 Timothy 1:12 (879)

III.  We must pray with contrition.  (repentance) 

      A.  King David:  Psalm 51:1-4,10-13; emphasis v4

      B.  Question?  I John 1:9

IV. We must pray with concern.

      A.  The apostle Paul is an example.  Philippians 1:3-11 (867)

      B.  Question:

Conclusion

      A.  Prayer is developmental.  Trust that our lesson with help us to grow in the practice

            of prayer.