December 31

The theme of the book of James is how we live out our faith—being a doer of the word and not a hearer only. Trouble had entered the early church by way of conflict among the people. James teaches how the people may seek divine wisdom to unify the believers once again.

The scripture we are looking at today is part of the Prayer of Faith. James refers back to his earlier writing where he tells the church to be patient in suffering, as well as how they must tame their tongues. He encourages them to be seek guidance from God in times of trouble and to use their words for prayer and praise.

When he refers to healing, James could be speaking of physical healing from ailments, but he could also be referring to spiritual healing. The emphasis seems to be on calling for those who are mature in the faith to surround someone ailing—in body, mind, or spirit—and pray for them, anointing them with oil. Unity amongst the people would be forged by praying for one another.

One thing which is important to point out is that neither the prayers nor the oil guarantees healing this side of heaven. Healing is a gift from God who knows what we need. Our sovereign Lord works in every situation for the good of his children. Sometimes we have to live through trials— as Paul did, with a thorn in our flesh—that not only draws us closer to God for his strength, but makes our works glorify our Father in heaven because they could not have been done through our own power.

Prayer for today:

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of your servant James who reminds us to find joy in trials. Perfect my faith with the fruit of the Holy Spirit so that I will be patient in suffering and also keep my tongue from grumbling about my fellow believers. Help me to use my words in prayer for the ill and for words of praise to you. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.