Faith Works: The Power of Prayer and Perseverance

Summary

In our gathering today, we explored the profound theme of "Faith Works," focusing on the power and significance of prayer as outlined in James chapter 5. We began by acknowledging the various troubles we face in life, whether they stem from personal actions or external circumstances. James encourages us to respond to these challenges with prayer, emphasizing that faith is most potent when we are in distress. We looked at the example of Elijah, a prophet who, through earnest prayer, influenced the natural world, demonstrating that prayer is an act of faith and submission to God's will.

We also delved into the story of Daniel, who, despite being in captivity, held onto hope through prayer and fasting. His perseverance in seeking God's guidance amidst adversity serves as a powerful reminder that even when answers seem delayed, God is at work behind the scenes. This narrative underscores the importance of maintaining hope and trusting in God's timing and purpose.

Furthermore, we discussed the role of confession in our faith journey. Sin can create barriers between us and God, but through confession, we find forgiveness and restoration. This act of faith not only heals our relationship with God but also empowers us to live righteously. The example of Job was highlighted to illustrate that righteousness is not about being free from trouble but about maintaining faith and integrity amidst trials.

Lastly, we examined the dynamic nature of prayer, recognizing that while God has the power to heal and perform miracles, His ways and reasons may not always align with our expectations. The story of Paul, who despite his ability to heal others, was not relieved of his own affliction, teaches us that God's grace is sufficient, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness.

Key Takeaways:

- Prayer as a Response to Trouble: In times of distress, prayer is our first line of defense. It is an act of faith that acknowledges God's sovereignty and invites His intervention in our lives. By looking at the prophets, like Elijah, we learn that prayer can influence both our circumstances and our hearts, aligning us with God's will. [52:41]

- Hope in Adversity: Daniel's story teaches us the importance of hope and perseverance in prayer, even when answers seem delayed. His commitment to seeking God amidst captivity reminds us that God is always at work, and our prayers are heard from the moment we utter them. [58:04]

- The Power of Confession: Sin can hinder our relationship with God, but confession brings healing and restoration. By acknowledging our sins, we open the door to God's forgiveness and grace, allowing us to live righteously and in alignment with His will. [01:20:56]

- Understanding God's Will in Healing: While God has the power to heal, His ways may not always align with our desires. Paul's experience with his "thorn in the flesh" teaches us that God's grace is sufficient, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness. [01:15:21]

- Persistent Prayer and Faith: Like Elijah, we are called to be persistent in prayer, trusting that God will answer in His perfect timing. Our faith is strengthened through perseverance, and we are reminded that God is powerful and effective in all situations. [01:30:10]

Youtube Chapters:

- [0:00] - Welcome
- [49:21] - Introduction to Faith Works
- [49:51] - The Power of Prayer
- [50:24] - When Prayers Seem Unanswered
- [50:57] - James 5:13-16 Reading
- [52:13] - Faith in Times of Trouble
- [53:12] - The Example of Elijah
- [54:15] - Listening to God
- [55:07] - Prayer as an Act of Faith
- [56:11] - Daniel's Hope in Captivity
- [58:04] - Trusting God's Timing
- [59:16] - Daniel's 21-Day Fast
- [01:01:05] - Spiritual Forces and Prayer
- [01:05:23] - The Role of Confession
- [01:12:51] - Jesus' Commission to Heal
- [01:14:21] - Paul's Thorn in the Flesh
- [01:18:13] - Faith and Healing
- [01:20:56] - Confession and Restoration
- [01:24:04] - Faith Works Righteousness
- [01:30:10] - Persistent Prayer and Faith
- [01:32:52] - Closing Prayer and Blessing

Study Guide

### Bible Study Discussion Guide: Faith Works

#### Bible Reading
1. James 5:13-16 - "Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."
2. 1 Kings 18:41-45 - The story of Elijah praying for rain.
3. Daniel 10:12-14 - Daniel's perseverance in prayer and fasting.

#### Observation Questions
1. What does James 5:13-16 suggest about the different responses to various life situations, such as trouble, happiness, and sickness? [50:57]
2. How did Elijah demonstrate the power of prayer in 1 Kings 18, and what was the outcome of his prayers? [53:12]
3. In Daniel 10, what was the significance of Daniel's 21-day fast, and how did it impact the spiritual realm? [59:16]
4. According to the sermon, what role does confession play in our relationship with God? [01:20:56]

#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the example of Elijah in 1 Kings 18 illustrate the concept of prayer as an act of faith and submission to God's will? [53:12]
2. What can we learn from Daniel's perseverance in prayer about maintaining hope and trusting in God's timing, even when answers seem delayed? [58:04]
3. How does the sermon explain the relationship between confession and healing, both spiritually and physically? [01:20:56]
4. In what ways does the story of Paul and his "thorn in the flesh" challenge our understanding of God's will in healing? [01:14:21]

#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a recent time of trouble in your life. How did you respond, and how might prayer have changed your approach? [52:41]
2. Daniel held onto hope through prayer during captivity. How can you cultivate hope in your current challenges, trusting that God is at work behind the scenes? [58:04]
3. Confession is said to bring healing and restoration. Is there an area in your life where confession could lead to spiritual or relational healing? [01:20:56]
4. Consider a situation where you prayed for healing or intervention, but the outcome was not as expected. How can you find peace in knowing that God's grace is sufficient, as Paul did? [01:15:21]
5. Elijah was persistent in prayer, even when the outcome seemed unlikely. How can you develop a habit of persistent prayer in your daily life? [01:30:10]
6. The sermon mentioned the importance of aligning our hearts with God's will through prayer. What steps can you take to ensure your prayers are in alignment with God's desires for your life? [55:07]
7. How can you incorporate the practice of prayer and fasting, like Daniel, into your spiritual routine to seek God's guidance and strength? [59:16]

Devotional

Day 1: Prayer as a Lifeline in Distress
In times of trouble, prayer becomes our lifeline, connecting us to God's sovereignty and inviting His intervention. James chapter 5 emphasizes the power of prayer, especially when we are in distress. The example of Elijah, who through earnest prayer influenced the natural world, illustrates that prayer is not just a ritual but an act of faith and submission to God's will. When we face challenges, whether from personal actions or external circumstances, prayer should be our first response. It aligns our hearts with God's will and opens the door for His power to work in our lives. [52:41]

James 5:13-15 (ESV): "Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven."

Reflection: Think of a current challenge you are facing. How can you make prayer your first response, inviting God's intervention and aligning your heart with His will?

Day 2: Hope and Perseverance in Prayer
Daniel's story teaches us the importance of hope and perseverance in prayer, even when answers seem delayed. Despite being in captivity, Daniel held onto hope through prayer and fasting, seeking God's guidance amidst adversity. His commitment reminds us that God is always at work, even when we cannot see it. Our prayers are heard from the moment we utter them, and we must trust in God's timing and purpose. This narrative encourages us to maintain hope and trust that God is working behind the scenes for our good. [58:04]

Daniel 10:12-13 (ESV): "Then he said to me, 'Fear not, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand and humbled yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words. The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days, but Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I was left there with the kings of Persia.'"

Reflection: Reflect on a situation where you feel your prayers have gone unanswered. How can you hold onto hope and trust in God's timing, knowing that He is at work behind the scenes?

Day 3: Confession as a Path to Restoration
Sin can create barriers between us and God, but through confession, we find forgiveness and restoration. This act of faith not only heals our relationship with God but also empowers us to live righteously. The example of Job illustrates that righteousness is not about being free from trouble but about maintaining faith and integrity amidst trials. Confession opens the door to God's forgiveness and grace, allowing us to align our lives with His will and experience spiritual healing. [01:20:56]

1 John 1:9 (ESV): "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

Reflection: Consider any unconfessed sins that may be hindering your relationship with God. How can you take a step towards confession today, opening the door to His forgiveness and restoration?

Day 4: Embracing God's Will in Healing
While God has the power to heal, His ways may not always align with our desires. The story of Paul, who despite his ability to heal others, was not relieved of his own affliction, teaches us that God's grace is sufficient, and His strength is made perfect in our weakness. We must trust that God's will is perfect, even when it doesn't match our expectations. This understanding helps us embrace His grace and find strength in our weaknesses, knowing that His power is at work in us. [01:15:21]

2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (ESV): "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

Reflection: Think about an area in your life where you desire healing or change. How can you trust in God's grace and strength, even if His will doesn't align with your expectations?

Day 5: The Power of Persistent Prayer
Like Elijah, we are called to be persistent in prayer, trusting that God will answer in His perfect timing. Our faith is strengthened through perseverance, and we are reminded that God is powerful and effective in all situations. Persistent prayer is an expression of our faith and trust in God's sovereignty. It keeps us connected to Him and allows us to witness His power at work in our lives and the world around us. [01:30:10]

Luke 18:1-8 (ESV): "And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. He said, 'In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, "Give me justice against my adversary." For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, "Though I neither fear God nor respect man, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming."' And the Lord said, 'Hear what the unrighteous judge says. And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?'"

Reflection: Identify a prayer request you have been bringing to God for a long time. How can you continue to pray persistently, trusting in His perfect timing and power?

Quotes

1) "Faith works in trouble. We're living in a time where many people are experiencing all kinds of different kinds of trouble. They're going through trials whether it be relational, whether it be in the business sector, whether it be just living in a community, whether it be about the behavior of people in the communities that we live in. We find ourselves sometimes because of the things that we do and sometimes because of the things that other people are doing, we find ourselves in a place of trouble. And the question is, how do you respond? And James is saying, pray. Sometimes the trouble that we experience has got nothing to do with anything that we have done. It almost seems as if trouble just comes and finds us. And James says, pray." [52:13] (64 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2) "When we are faced with trouble, when we go down and on our knees or whether we're just praying in whatever posture in our prayer closets, when we are praying, it's like we're saying, we're telling God, this is a situation that we submit to you. We believe that you are the almighty God and we would have you deal with our difficulty in the way that you understand. You know better than we do. And praying is an act of faith. It's showing that we really trust God and that we're going to wait on God for his answer to come through." [55:07] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3) "The most important thing that we need when we're in trouble is hope. We've been reading about situations where people lose hope when they feel like this is the end. There's nothing that can be done about the situation that they're in. And when they get to the place of hopelessness, well then bad things happen. And the decisions that hopeless people make are not healthy decisions. The amount of pain that comes from decisions that come from hopelessness is beyond what we're designed to be able to bear. It really, really is difficult. And so always, always hold on to hope." [57:26] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4) "Give your situation over to God and trust Him. He is a loving Heavenly Father who knows what's good for you. And even if it be a 70-year ordeal, trust that God is going to bring something good out of the situation. He can and He will. What Daniel did when he was distressed about how long he'd been there, he'd seen the Babylonian empire come and take him away. He'd seen that empire overthrown by the Medes and the Persians. And he'd seen Darius, the king that favored him incredibly, the one who, when he was thrown into the lion's den, went into fasting and didn't eat that night and didn't want entertainment and was there first thing in the morning." [58:04] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5) "Sometimes in order to get to the place where you will fully, completely rely on God, you need to feel like there's need or reason, reason to rely on God. And sometimes the weaknesses that we have will take us to that place. What am I saying? I'm saying that this Paul who has the power to heal sick people, despite a cloth being transferred to that person. There was one time, Acts chapter 20, Paul was with a group in Troas and he was planning to leave the next day, so he preached until midnight. And this dozy Christian sitting in the window just falls out from the second story. They picked him up dead and Paul raised him back to life again." [01:15:21] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6) "Sometimes it has to do with faith. But here we've just had a testimony of a woman and a pastor comes in and says, I think God wants to heal you. It's like he's saying, I'm not really sure, but let's just pray and see. And then the woman thinks, God does heal, but not me. Somebody else maybe, but I think, and she doesn't have the faith that you would expect her to have in order to be healed. And, and, gets to be discharged and not even a scar. And we're sitting there saying, what gives? How do we understand this? And while we don't, let's always allow when we're facing sicknesses and when we're facing difficulties in life, let's allow our first step to be the one where we're saying, God, I want to engage you in my life." [01:18:13] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7) "The thing about sin, and we learn this from Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, is when we have sin into our lives, and it's not like it came into our lives. Let's be honest. We bring sin into our lives. When that happens, our general tendency is to hide away from God. It's the relationship starts to break down. The prayer life ultimately becomes non-existent. And sometimes, the only prayers that we utter when we're in sin, and when our sin is at that level of disobedience, the only prayers is help. You know, in the desperate and the worst situations is when we turn to God. But generally, in general conversation, sin is a barrier." [01:20:56] (55 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8) "If we want to be righteous in the eyes of God, then all we have to do is believe in Jesus that he justifies us. And we confess our sins, we get to be forgiven, and we're in this place. Sometimes in prayer, prayer is a real struggle. There was a time when the disciples, Jesus was on the Mount of Transfiguration and nine of them, nine of his disciples were together. A man brought a child to him for prayer. And when Jesus came back from the Transfiguration Mount, the man went to Jesus and said, I've got this problem. There's a demon that is just disturbing my son and I took him to your disciples and they couldn't do anything about it." [01:25:52] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9) "The God that we serve is powerful and effective. He can take care of whatever the situation is that you're facing, whatever the problem that you have in your life, there is a God who loves you. He is merciful. Sometimes we need to come forward and we need to confess some things. Sometimes we just need to draw closer to him. We've been attracted to things and perhaps we're in a form of idolatry where we're not giving God the kind of allegiance that we need to give to him. Sometimes he sees us as an incredible example of faith and he is showing spiritual forces and powers that no matter what we go through like Job, whether it be the loss of everything that we have or whether it be physical health that we're struggling with, no matter the pressure, those spiritual forces need to know and see we will never abandon the trust that we have for a God who loves us, who put his life on a cross for us to be able to go through life with the peace of eternal salvation." [01:31:36] (69 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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Transcript

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