Re:Verse passage – James 5:12-18 (day four)
In this week’s passage, James continues his exhortation to practical living. No matter the circumstances, prayer is the proper response. Suffering or in need? Pray. Cheerful? Pray. Are you sick? Pray. Have you sinned? Confess and pray. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much. Whenever you are in doubt, pray.
What is your first response when things happen? Is your first inclination to praise God…to thank God…to seek God…to confess to God? By seeking God first, we acknowledge that He is God. We do not try to seek our own way or do things in our own power. The apostle Paul also taught this truth to us… “Pray without ceasing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17); as well as Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount…“Seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) Want to live a life of righteousness? Make prayer your first priority, which translates to making God your first priority!
Amen.