The David Spoon Experience 8-2-24 part 1

A) It's another first on The David Spoon Experience as Todd, a friend of Aunt Deb's, calls in and shares his answer on whether he likes upbeat or face-to-face worship. On top of that, it turns out to be Todd's birthday, so we were able to give him a happy birthday song. 

B) However, many overlook the connection with the subsequent part of the verse. Verse 17 states that Elijah was a man just like us. The comparison is clear: we are akin to Elijah, and Elijah is akin to us. Despite Elijah’s strong sense of righteousness and purpose, he still had sins to confront. In fact, the Lord even rebuked him for some of his statements and actions.

C) Understanding this is crucial for us to comprehend the power of prayer. A man is righteous not because of his own deeds, but because God has made him righteous. We are righteous individuals because God has made us so, through the righteousness of Jesus Christ. Therefore, if a righteous man’s prayer holds great power, and we are righteous through Jesus Christ, then our prayers also possess great power.

D) One might wonder about the actual power of our prayers. It’s noteworthy that James draws a comparison in the scripture: Elijah prayed for it not to rain, and it didn’t rain for three and a half years. Then he prayed for rain, and the rain came, causing the earth to yield its crop. How much power does the prayer of a righteous man have? Enough to influence the weather in regions all around mankind. This isn’t a rain dance; it’s a faith petition to God.