Proper 21: Epistle, James 5:13-20

James 5:13-20

Counting the number of times words are used in any given passage is not my usual key to importance or emphasis. But perhaps a new key is in order just this once. James, in his wonderful epistle filled with wisdom and counsel for living under the Lord, has been teaching us about suffering. I love the Bible when it speaks to suffering. Simply by virtue of admitting its reality, the reader/hearer is launched to a place of realizing God recognizes it and is with us in it. Some of the people I love the most dearly are those who have suffered greatly. Many of them live life with great zest and intention to serve for the best of others. Suffering can create greatness. Real greatness.

In James 5:13-18, prayer or a form of the word (in English) is found some eight times. That’s a bit more than once per verse. The context is suffering illness of various kinds-and yet there is a place for rejoicing here as well. But using our new key, we find that there is something about speaking to the Lord, and listening to others speak His Word to us that is healing. God’s Word always brings life. It’s creative. It’s cleansing and renewing. And it’s always powerful. (cf. Isaiah 55:10-11)

Prayer is for times of suffering. Perhaps it would be as correct to say suffering is for times of prayer. God doesn’t relish our difficulties or hurt. He does allow it, and contrary to current faddish church teaching, God does send illness and challenge our way at times. Job knew that, expressed it, and through that truth has opened a door that James wants us to enter.

Speak to God about your hurts, illnesses, weakness and sin. He is always there. He loves to hear from His children. His Word in return, however it comes, will always be good medicine. He’s always listening.

“O good Lord, hear us.”