October 1, 2021
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms.
~James 5:13~
We as people of God have a divine gift and calling to those who are sorrowful among us. This of course includes ourselves as well, to have those who are able to stand in the gap for our trials and pains. The power of prayer for one who has lost all hope reminds them of God's great faithfulness to act on those who suffer in their spirit; "The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit." (Psalms 34:18)
Depression is a sneaky enemy. It lurks in dark shadows and appears in such a way that blinds the one who may be suffering from it. Depression makes motivation come to a halt. It causes negativety to be highlighted more then positivety. It makes us forget in the goodness that Jesus has done and will do. Our first action in a time when we witness others feeling such a way is to pray. A simple instruction penned by James. To pray when our brothers and sisters are hurting. We have that glorious ability to lift others before the throne of God and believe He will step in to comfort, for His word says so. "Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, On those who hope in His mercy." (Psalms 33:18)
He is watching and He is waiting for His beloved to step in on other's behalf. Not only can we step in to pray, we can step in to rejoice! We can praise alongside our brethren as they are joyful! For where there is praise there is Glory given to God. James tells us to not just speak psalms, but to actually sing them. When we sing God's word it is far more powerful then if we were to just read them to ourself. We can celebrate the word of God in music! "Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises!" (Psalms 47:6)
Singing brings others to smile, dance and appreciate the atmosphere in a whole new way. When battles were won in the Old Testament, those in leadership would turn to song and dance. It was their way of expressing their whole heart, mind, body and soul to God's goodness. "Then Deborah and Barak the son of Abinoam sang on that day, saying: “When leaders lead in Israel, When the people willingly offer themselves, Bless the Lord! “Hear, O kings! Give ear, O princes! I, even I, will sing to the Lord; I will sing praise to the Lord God of Israel."
(Judges 5:1â€-‬3)
As God's people come together for eachother we have the opportunity to pray or to praise! That is where we are to go with any emotion, whether it be depression or joy, we go first to Jesus Christ. He is faithful to respond according to our actions. What so ever our pains may be in this moment we can take our cares to the Most High God and know His love will mend our broken hearts. If we are having a day filled with such joy, let us be the first ones to shout out loud the wonders of our King, sharing it with others. Rejoicing, for time is too short to remain silent with our thanksgiving. The manual of life guides us into understanding how to handle each emotion. These major ones have major responses backing them; pray through depression, sing through joy. God is always listening. Abolish the darkness with His power. Rejoice in the joy of the Lord by singing psalms. Its so simple yet so great!
Prayer:
Father God, thank you for giving me the ability to pray for my fellow sisters and brothers who are sorrowful in heart. Thank you for giving me those who are willing to step in and pray for me. I am grateful for the gift of prayer and for the knowledge of just how powerful it is. Use me Lord to move heaven and earth according to Your loving kindness. I rejoice in times of great joy singing to You O Lord, the wondrous deeds and glory You bring! Let me share in singing psalms with those I love. Praise you King Jesus for the blessings You have bestowed upon Your beloved! I love you and I know You love me. I receive Your guidance in who I can pray for and who I can sing for. In the Mighty Name of my Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.