James 5:13
James 5:13
Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.
Throughout this verse, James encourages his readers to respond to all circumstances in their lives with prayer. That is what people who trust in God do. The theme of James's letter is consistent: one's actions reveal what one believes. Even if prayer is not a natural act for us, we are encouraged to pray nonetheless. Prayer is a key means of expressing one's faith in God, regardless of whether it feels awkward or natural. Whenever and wherever possible, we should pray to the Lord, especially during times of need. This is because He is a God who hears our cries and who is always at our side. As he concludes his epistle, James repeatedly emphasizes the importance of prayer and praise. God's throne of grace should be our first delight and desire in times of need. Yesterday, today, and forever, Jesus remains the same. His ear is always open to our prayers, and He is always ready to help us, but as we journey toward our promised heavenly home, we must approach Him with earnest prayer and cheerful praise in order to germinate, grow, blossom, and bud our faith in Him, and bring forth fruit for God's glory.
Romans 8:26
Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
Jeremiah 33:3
Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.
Psalms 6:9
The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer.
John 9:31
Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.