Thursday, November 17, 2011

Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. James 5:17-18

 James gives the example of Elijah in today’s verse. Remember that he is making the argument for the person who is sick to pray and to be prayed for by Godly people.  He points out some very key things about Elijah.  First, that Elija “was a man subject to like passions as we are.”  What does this mean?   Elijah was a prophet who ministered in Israel.  You can read about this account in 1 Kings 17 and 18.  Elijah wasn’t some superhuman person who could control the weather by his own will.  He was a normal person, who, like us, is subject to the same temptations and desires that we face.  God controlled the weather, not Elijah.  Yet, at the same time when Elijah asked God, God granted His requests.

Prayer is powerful enough to stop and bring rain, and prayer is powerful enough to turn a heart back to God.

Application:  Prayer is so powerful.  You and I have the opportunity to communicate with the God of the Universe.  Make sure to take time to talk to God throughout the day today.