Perseverance and Prayer

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Sermon Notes

February 13, 2011

Perseverance and Prayer Dave Jamerson | James 5:1-20

A warning to the rich who are hoarding wealth and are thoroughly self-reliant Another encouragement to believers to persevere and to be patient in suffering The power that can be found in a genuine relationship with God through prayer A reminder to stay focused on the eternal welfare of others Will I get more enamored with the things of this world than enamored with Christ, the King of Glory? Will I let the world capture and ensnare me? You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence.

James 5:5 (NIV)

Will I let trials, failures, setbacks, and disappointments derail me from God’s purpose in my life? Do I really believe and understand the power that God has given me to live differently and to see people and this world transformed? Or do I choose to live below the impact level that God has for me? The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man is powerful. Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops. James 5:16-18 (NIV)

When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep. All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” I Kings 19: 3-5 (NIV)

What if … What if our entire church caught this vision and passion? What could God do through a yielded and available group of people? What will happen if we never try? Why not … Why not believe him to do exceedingly, abundantly more than we could ask or think? Make a concentrated decision now to not get ensnared with the pursuits of this world and instead reorient your life to completely live for God’s purposes. Do not let disappointment, failure, trials, or setbacks discourage you from stepping out freshly in faith, trusting Christ, and serving the world. Know that your life truly can and does make a difference in the world. God has given you power, through prayer, to change things.