James 5
In v13-18, James describes for us effective worship in fellowship with other believers. Difficulties of course should trigger prayer that we gain strength from God and for relief. Joy should trigger songs of praise. John Piper offers us this definition of worship, emphasizing our heart condition, which then leads to praise, prayer and acts of love:
"The inner essence of worship is to know God truly and then respond from the heart to that knowledge by valuing God, treasuring God, prizing God, enjoying God, being satisfied with God above all earthly things. And then that deep, restful, joyful satisfaction in God overflows in demonstrable acts of praise from the lips and demonstrable acts of love in serving others for the sake of Christ."
James' words on the effectiveness of prayer offers us encouragement that God hears our prayers.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and You ARE worthy of worship, praise and adoration as You are the King of Kings, slow to anger and abounding in love...for me. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of the love and blessings You pour for me. I worry...too much Lord! Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. v16
In v13-18, James describes for us effective worship in fellowship with other believers. Difficulties of course should trigger prayer that we gain strength from God and for relief. Joy should trigger songs of praise. John Piper offers us this definition of worship, emphasizing our heart condition, which then leads to praise, prayer and acts of love:
"The inner essence of worship is to know God truly and then respond from the heart to that knowledge by valuing God, treasuring God, prizing God, enjoying God, being satisfied with God above all earthly things. And then that deep, restful, joyful satisfaction in God overflows in demonstrable acts of praise from the lips and demonstrable acts of love in serving others for the sake of Christ."
James' words on the effectiveness of prayer offers us encouragement that God hears our prayers.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and You ARE worthy of worship, praise and adoration as You are the King of Kings, slow to anger and abounding in love...for me. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of the love and blessings You pour for me. I worry...too much Lord! Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
