Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. James 5:13 NIV

The Book of James is a short letter separated into only five chapters. Chapter five begins with warnings to the rich who oppress the innocent. It continues, encouraging the faithful to patiently endure suffering and concludes with a section about the power and effectiveness of sincere prayer from the righteous in Christ. 

We cannot ignore that James’ brother Jesus was killed at the hands of powerful people of great wealth and status. James warns of the misery in store for those corrupted by the love of money as they hoard wealth while others suffer in poverty. He condemns their sinful self-indulgent lives of luxury, adding in James 5:6, “You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you. NIV”

Consider it Pure Joy

Those who sing songs of praise while enduring the difficulties of this life are rare, but inspiring people. As such, James encourages the faithful to endure trouble with patience, prayer, and praise, counting even the difficulties we encounter as occasions to experience joy. He writes in James 1:2-3, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. NIV”

What James teaches for those who are troubled is the power of prayer. In addition, in good times, he teaches us to sing songs of praise. Too often we turn to God only when times are tough and ignore our Father in happier times. James encourages closeness with the Lord at all times. 

In our troubles, sickness, and sins, the brother of Jesus urges us to turn to God in prayer. He writes in James 5:16, “Confess your offenses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The insistent prayer of a righteous person is powerfully effective. WEB”

Yesterday’s Devotional: Created Through Him