
As we come to the end of James we also find ourselves returning to where we began.
Back in the opening verses James said, “Consider it pure joy my brothers whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you maybe mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
James has told us that life’s trials are not unnatural barriers in our walk with God but are His appointed way for us to move forward to spiritual maturity. In that knowledge he then called his listeners to prayer.
Now having revisited the subject of trials at the beginning of chapter 5 where we saw we are called to be patient and stand firm as we await the Lord’s coming, James now calls his listeners and us to prayer once again.
Praise:
Message Points:
- A Call to Prayer
- Prayer for the Sick
- Effective Prayer Illustrated
- Seeking Spiritual Restoration
Application Questions:
- To what extent is prayer your first response to both the ups and downs of life? Why is this do you think?
- How does thinking about Elijah’s prayers excite you about yours?
- Is there a wanderer you need to seek to “Bring …back?” Bring them to God in prayer now and ask Him to give you opportunities to encourage them to come home.
- What for you has been the most important thing God has said to you through our studies in the book of James? How are you seeking to ensure that you have not merely listened to that word but are doing what it says?