Prayer: Part I - Pray

Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit. James 5:17-18 (ESV)

You must pray. James reminds us of Elijah, a man of great faith who nonetheless shared our human frailties. Despite his powerful stand on Mount Carmel, Elijah later succumbed to fear and fled (1 Kings 19:3). Doubts and uncertainties plagued his mind, much as they do ours. Yet, Scripture notes that he prayed.

Reflect on your own prayer life. In our hectic world, countless things vie for our attention. But recall Christ’s teaching: “When you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret” (Matt. 6:6). A life without prayer is a life without power.

Paul urges us to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17). This isn’t merely a suggestion; it’s a command. In joyful times and trying ones, in moments of strength and hours of weakness, we must pray. It’s not optional, but essential for every believer.