We all need guidance in life. We all face situations that we are not quite sure how to navigate. We may not know the answers, but they are not too far. They are in the Bible that is probably sitting on a table in your house right now.
James, the half-brother of Jesus, offered this advice in his letter: "Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise" (James 5:13).
I think as believers, especially if you have been in church most of your life, you hear the advice of prayer and praise, and you almost overlook it. You may even underestimate it.
You know you should pray, and you know you should praise God. I am not doubting that you know you should do these things: I am asking if you are actually doing them.
Do you get on your knees and ask for direction from God when you feel unsure of what to do next? Do you raise your hands in worship to thank Him for all He has done for you?
As I read the book of James this week, what stood out to me was James' emphasis on humility. Then, I noticed that towards the end of the letter, he told believers to pray and sing songs of praise. I do not think these ideas are unrelated. Personally, I believe when we truly decide to humble ourselves, the result will be prayer and praise.
If you think you do not need God, you will not pray. If you do not understand God's position of authority and you live your life as if you are in control, you will not sing praise to Him. Humility, prayer, and praise all go hand in hand.
I have no idea what your life looks like right now, but I know that whatever season you are in, the answer is found in seeking the Lord. If you are struggling, come to God in prayer and ask for His help. If things in life are going great, express that gratitude to God in praise!
James knew that prayer and praise were essentials to the Christian walk, and we should know this, too.
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