James 5:18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.
The story of the drought and new rain during Elijah’s ministry is found in 1 Kings 17-18. The only prayer of these chapters that is recorded is found in 1 Kings 18:36-37: “Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.” It is noteworthy in the prayer that God is the focus. Elijah prays that God will be known. The prayer does not mention the sacrifice or the drought but that the people will see God’s power and return to God in repentance. What is the purpose or goal of answered prayer? Elijah’s prayer is a good clue about prayer, what to pray and how to pray. James notes how Elijah’s prayer produced results of miracles. What is the focus of our prayers? Are they all about us, or do they seek to glorify God and call people to repentance and renewed relationship with God? We sometimes hear of stories of miracles happening because of prayer. Does God answer our prayers to satisfy our own selfish wishes? Possible in grace God may do this at times. But God wants people to experience His love. Prayers that have the goal of glorifying God and restoring people’s relationship with God may more readily be answered than prayers about improving our selfish lives.
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