James 5: 13-16 Pray for One another
Complaining is easy but is not the appropriate response in times of difficulty. Prayer on the other hand expresses hope and trust God.
When we pray for one anther we show concern, especially when we pray for those who are sick. James provided specific instructions when we are sick. We are to call on the elders to anoint us with oil and pray for us. Oil was one of the most common used medicines used in biblical times, the oil though is not the most important part of these instructions, James’s emphasis was on the prayer. Prayer is to be done “in the name of the Lord” which implies divine commission and authority, after all He is the Great Physician.
It is not the prayer that raises the sick. Our prayer of faith shows and builds our confidence that God will heal. The seriousness of the illness should not hamper us from praying for healing.
Not all sickness is a result of sin (John 9:1-3), however James focused on healing from sickness as a result of sin. Confession of sin then becomes part of healing process. Confession must be to our pastor or trusted, mature believer who can keep confidences. Confessing does not mean we have to share all of the details. God knows the details already. The attitude of repentance is what is important.
It may be that we have sinned against another person; we must go to that person and ask forgiveness and be reconciled to him or her. Then we can pray for each other and experience the healing God intended for us to receive. Some may wonder if their prayers do any good, especially if they have prayed for something over an extended time and the answer has not come. James words are an encouragement and our prayers do make a difference.
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