Contemplative Bible Reading

James 5:16b (King James Version)

The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

This is one of my favorite sentences from the Bible. I love the King James Version of this. Something about this rings in my ears. (The New International Version is shown below. I suppose it is easier to understand, but it doesn’t mean the same to me.)

We don’t use these words much. “Effectual,” “fervent,” “availeth.” What a shame. I feel such power as they roll off my tongue.

Look at each word:

• • effectual: adjective: producing or capable of producing an intended result or having a striking effect (all three definitions here are from [dictionary.com].

This is a prayer that is capable. This is a prayer that has a striking result. This is a prayer that I want to pray.

• • fervent: adjective: having or showing great warmth or intensity of spirit, feeling, enthusiasm, etc.; ardent.

This word comes from the heart of the person praying. Do I have an intense spirit? Am I ardent? (Another great word.)

I couldn’t find a definition for the word “availeth.” I had to settle for the definition of “avails.” This has much the same meaning.

• • avails: verb: To be of use or advantage to; help.

An effectual, fervent prayer that avails. This is from God. My goal is to pray this way daily.

James 5:16b (New International Version)

The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.