26th November 2024

26th November 2024


Pray (ACts)


Read (James 5v13)


What is our natural setting when we are called to suffer? What is the first thing we do when the tears begin to roll? Who do we call when the bad news is delivered? There are of course many responses to these questions but if you are like me then prayer is often far down the list. James would have some choice words for me if I was under his care. The Lord’s brother asks “Is anyone among you suffering?” (v13) with the simple but challenging answer “Let him pray.”


What is prayer? Prayer is when we call upon the Lord sharing with Him our desires. Prayer never presumes that God will do what we say or else, instead prayer says “your will be done.” We approach God in the name of Jesus in the strength of the Holy Spirit and as we come before the Lord we confess our sins and we praise God for the mercy He has shown us.


If our definition of prayer is correct then we can say that prayer is actually quite simple. Nevertheless, it often proves incredibly difficult for us to put prayer into practice. Why do we struggle so much with prayer? Why do our churches not excel in prayer? Why is prayer the last port of call for many of us? I speak for myself when I say, I don’t pray because of my sin. I sinfully believe that I can do all things, I am the master of my destiny and I in my own strength will do the work. These sinful boasts might impress some, but they do not impress the Lord.


If we are suffering then we are to pray. Indeed, in the highs and lows of life, the Lord is to be the One we seek. James asks “Is anyone cheerful?” (v13b) then let him sing praise! In both suffering and summer days, we are to call upon the Lord and sing His praise.


I do not write this devotion to make you feel any worse about your prayer life than you already do. You know all too well that the Lord is often your last thought and rarely your first. Even so, I urge you to seek change in this area of your life. If we believe prayer to be powerful and effective, and if we say that Christ is our greatest treasure, then may our thoughts and words be proved true as we pray fervently and praise God daily.


Brothers and sisters, whatever your physical or spiritual condition today, call upon the Lord in prayer and sing His praise. Glorify God and enjoy Him - this is your whole duty and make no mistake, He is worthy of it all.


Message (Scott Woodburn)


Pray (acTS)


Sing


WSC


Q45 Which is the first commandment? The first commandment is, Thou shalt have no other gods before me.
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