Family Day 18: Faith that heals and lifts

Today's Scripture

Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. 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.
— James 5:13-16 (NIV)

Reflect on the Word

In James 5:13-16, we discover that we’re not made to follow Jesus alone. We need one another! When life is difficult, we pray together. When life is happy, we celebrate together. When someone is sick, we ask God for healing together. When we mess up, we admit it and ask for God’s forgiveness together.

Praying for someone is the most powerful thing we can do to help them. It’s one of the best ways we can defeat our enemy, Satan. God tells us that He hears our prayers. They are powerful, and they are effective (they work well).

Our prayers invite God’s power into our lives and the lives of others. And when we pray, we have eyes to see that God is present in all situations. He shares in the best parts, His light shines in the dark moments, and His ever-present love changes lives.

Family Moment

Invite your family to share in a worship sing-along dance party. Select a favorite song or try out a new one as you sing, dance and worship together. Looking for some song recommendations? Consider “What an Awesome God” by Phil Wickham, “Waymaker” by Leeland or “Glorious Day” by Passion.

Let's Pray!

Review the questions from James 5 and pray in response. Are you or someone you know in trouble? Happy or sick? Do you need to ask for forgiveness? Share personal requests or requests on behalf of others, and pray together.