Ongoing Prayer and Praise

Our need to respond to the trials of life appropriately so that we develop steadfastness and a mature faith is one of the main emphases of the book of James, being the very first topic that the Apostle addresses in his letter (James 1:2–4). Much of the last chapter of James deals with the same issue, and we have thus far read about what we should do when we are suffering at the hands of non-Christians, especially in cases of economic exploitation (5:1–12). In today’s verse, the Apostle switches to trials associated with illness and sin, beginning a section that deals mainly with physical suffering and troubles associated with transgression.

James 5:13 begins with a question: “Is anyone among you suffering?” If we reply with a yes, James counsels us: “Let him pray.” The word “suffering” is broad in scope, and it can refer to suffering persecution for the sake of the gospel, suffering exploitation and injustice, suffering with an illness, and more. Thus, James’ words apply to any instance of suffering. The immediate context and its focus on sickness, however, indicates that James primarily has the suffering associated with physical ailments in view (see vv. 14–16).

Going to the Lord in prayer when we are ill or injured should be our immediate response. Sadly, however, we sometimes think of prayer as a last resort. Often, the first thing we do is to call the doctor or begin taking medication. Modern medicine, of course, is one tool that our good Lord has providentially given to help us get well, so there is no shame in using physicians, surgeries, medications, and so on. Paul even commends the medicinal use of wine in 1 Timothy 5:23. We err, however, if all we do is to make use of the natural remedies available to us and do not call on the Lord who has ordained the discovery of these remedies and who can also provide supernatural assistance. Moreover, James’ teaching that trials can mature us in our faith tells us that when we are ill or injured, we should pray not only for a physical recovery but also for the grace and strength to endure and learn from our physical trials (see James 1:2–4).

James goes on to tell those who are not suffering but cheerful that they should sing praise (5:13). This is not to say that one should not sing while suffering. Because it can be easy to forget the Lord when things are going well (see Deut. 8:11–20), it is particularly important for us to praise God during years of abundance so that we remember that it all comes from Him.