James Part 11: The Restoration of the Body

Read James 5:13-20

Watch “James 5:13-20” by Francis Chan on Rightnow Media.

What is your first response (be honest!) when you experience:

• Suffering?
• Something wonderful?
• Serious illness?

What circumstances cause you to stop and pray?

In verse 17, James uses the example of Elijah to make the point that any person can see incredible things happen because of their prayer. In this week’s video, Francis talks a lot about this verse, and wonders what might stop someone from believing that their prayers can be “powerful and effective.” He suspects it is partly due to a lack of faith.

What is your belief (again, be honest) about the power of your prayers?

If you struggle in this area, would you say it is because you lack faith:

In God, to do the miracle?
In yourself, to move in the miraculous?
Or is it something else?

Why might this be?

In verses 19 and 20, James concludes with a call to share the gospel and help sinners change. This is another moment in James where it seems like he has suddenly changed tack. Yet prayer in all circumstances, and caring for those who have drifted away, are both natural consequences of a heart that overflows with love for God.

What things help you fill your heart with love for God?

Who is someone you care about who has drifted away from God?

Conclude in prayer. Pray for those named who have drifted away. Pray that our hearts would be filled with love for God. And pray that we would have natural, appropriate opportunities to share that love with those who have drifted away.