Bible Dictionary
Effectual prayer
Effectual prayer is prayer that accomplishes much through God’s working. James teaches that the earnest supplication of a righteous person is powerful and effective.
Definition
Effectual prayer is prayer that accomplishes much through its working. The expression emphasizes the power and effectiveness of earnest supplication rather than merely the act of speaking a prayer.
Biblical Usage
The Authorized Version uses the expression in James 5:16. The Revised Version explains it as the supplication of a righteous person that avails much in its working.
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
Occurs in Authorized Version, James 5:16. The Revised Version renders appropriately: “The supplication of a righteous man availeth much in its working”, i.e., “it moves the hand of Him who moves the world.”