The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working. (James 5:16 ESV)
Prayer and Faith
Most of us end our prayers with, “in Jesus’ name, Amen.” And when we consider our reasons, we usually think about the fact that His Spirit intercedes for us when we pray, changing our faulty words to exactly the right ones. (Hebrews 7:25) Or we realize that Jesus as our older brother enables us to confidently approach the throne of God in prayer. (Hebrews 4:16) Or maybe we just say the words to remind us of our savior.
But there is a richer reason.
James declares that of all the prayers in the universe, the prayers uttered by a righteous person are the most effective. Other translations correctly add nuances of, “effects much,” “is powerful and works,” or even, “is something powerful to be reckoned with.”
And no one is as righteous as Jesus.
By attaching our prayers to Him, the One in whom we believe, His righteousness helps our prayers. His righteousness, just like in our justification and sanctification, is powerful.
Our faith connects us to Christ’s righteousness even here.
Pray in His name!
Take the faith God grants us.