I have heard these words spoken before concerning what to do when a sickness or trial comes our way. "Well, at least we can pray!" Of all the things we can do in response to a trial, prayer is not the least thing that we can do, it is the best thing we can do.
We pray in faith that in this time of sickness, or trial, that God's will be done. God is wanting to see faith. He is wanting to see how far we will go to trust Him. In our text, James emphasizes prayer, and says to go to the elders of the church, and have them pray, and anoint with oil. The anointing of oil was not only a physical treatment that was traditionally done in the days of the early church, but also a symbol of the Holy Spirit's presence, in the process of healing. When we are sick, or going through a severe trial, the best thing we can do, is give it all over to the Lord. To rest our soul in His presence, and in the comfort of His Word. To cooperate with the professional people, who we depend on for treatment and care.
To be an example of love and faith as we endure this great challenge in our lives. To never give up hope, because that is the gift our Lord gave to us, when He came to this world, and left victorious.GP
Photo by David Castillo Dominici. Published on 19 March 2013 www.freedigitalphotos.net