“Is anyone among you suffering?  Let them pray.  Is anyone cheerful?  Let them sing songs of praise.” (James 5:13 NIV)

This scripture reminds us to turn to God in all situations and circumstances.  For when life is hard, we are to pray.  When life is not going our way, we are to pray.  When we are afraid, we are to pray.  When we are sick, we are to pray.  When we are having difficulty in a relationship, we are to pray.  When we are struggling at our job, we are to pray.  When we are suffering, we are to pray.  For our immediate response to life and life’s difficulties should be to pray. The question is “do we?”

Then the second part of this scripture tells us that when life is going well, we are to give thanks and praise God. When we are cheerful or in good place in life, the appropriate response is to praise God whether in our thoughts, our words, our voice or through singing.  

This verse highlights that both hard times and good times are opportunities to go to God.  This scripture encourages a lifestyle of constant communication with God, regardless of one’s current circumstances.  It is something to think about.  It is something for us to try to do. Go to God no matter what is happening in your life. God Bless. Amen.

denise