In James 5:13 the writer asks, “Is any of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick?”
Pray, pray, pray! It’s believed that the author of the book of James is actually Jesus’ brother. He did not become a believer until after the resurrection of Jesus; but once he did, he must have been a ball of fire! He earned the nickname “Camel-Knees” because he spent so much time on his knees in prayer.
So after learning this new nugget, I thought about my own prayer-life. I can’t say that I spend so much time on my knees that they have become knobby, misshapen or calloused (and I’m not sure that’s my goal!), but what about my heart? Am I spending enough time with the Father that others see a difference in me?
That’s my desire…to be a woman of prayer. In 1 Thessalonians 5:17, we’re encouraged to “pray without ceasing.” We have the awesome privilege of having an ongoing conversation with our Heavenly Father anywhere, at any time, for any reason! Maybe “camel-knees” is not the nickname you’re looking to adopt, but don’t we long for the same relationship that James had with the Lord? I know I do!
So I challenge you to “pray without ceasing” this week. Maybe your knees won’t give evidence of the hours spent in prayer, but I bet your heart will!
Memory Verse:
“Is any of you in trouble? He should pray.”
– James 5:13a (NIV)
Prayer Prompt:
“Oh, Father, to be like James! To spend so much time with You that others notice a difference in me! I long to know You that intimately. Help me to recognize You in every situation and invite You to be a part of my every day. As I spend time with You, teach me to…”
Contributing Writer:
DeeDee Sharon
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