It’s late Sunday night, and little William and I are spending time together as I reflect on the joys and difficulties of this week. I think about the highlights – the kids playing tag with Chad in the evenings, family dinner around the table, and time with friends. Then, of course, some things were hard – the unexpected news, the teething baby, and late nights. Sometimes, I wish there was a “fix-all” button or just a peek into the future to see the outcome of a situation. I know life is full of mountaintop experiences and walking through valleys. However, it is usually the difficult things that build my faith the most. When I need Jesus more than ever, I pray with sincerity. I read this verse in the book of James, and it seemed to grip my heart when I thought about its meaning.
“Is any among you afflicted? Let him pray. Is any merry? Let him sing Psalms.”
Each week should be a beautiful mix of talking to God during difficulties while singing and praising Him in the joys of this life.
I looked up the meaning of the word “afflicted.” It means “to undergo hardship: – be afflicted, endure afflictions (hardness), suffer trouble.”
When we are experiencing “trouble” in our lives, prayer is the remedy for our trial. Just start praying. It seems so simple. Tell God about it. He cares. He understands. Through prayer and seeking the Lord, we will find wisdom and direction, and He will shine the light on the next step we need to take.
Adrian Rogers said, “Prayer does not bend God’s will to fit our will; Prayer finds the will of God and gets in on it.”
It is just another gentle reminder from God to give it to Him. I don’t need to try to find the solution to my problem and work it out in my strength. He is waiting to take the “burden” I’m carrying. I need to lay it at His feet and trust that He knows what is best.
Be Encouraged.
~ Erin
