The Prayer of Faith

“And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he has committed sins they shall be forgiven him. (James 5:15)

Some sick people are ill because of their sin (Mark 2:5). Others are sick or afflicted despite their goodness (John 11:1-3; Job 2:7-8). We must not assume that anyone who is sick brought it on themselves because of their or someone else’s sin (John 9:1-3).

When we or someone else is sick we are to pray and trust God for the results that come. Paul had a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan which buffeted him. He prayed three times that it might depart from him. He was not healed. But, God answered him saying, “My grace is sufficient for thee for my strength is made perfect in weakness.”

(II Corinthians 12:7-9)

Notice the emphatic “shall,” used three times in James 5:15: “The prayer of faith “shall” deliver the sick. The Lord “shall” raise him up. And if he has committed sins, they “shall” be forgiven him. You and I are to do the praying and leave the answering up to Him.