Cameroon Bible Institute

HEALING

Our life and plans are in the Lord´s hands and we are submitted to His will. This aspect of James´s teaching carries a clear link between any situations in our lives, therefore in sickness as well. that even though the elders are supposed to pray for those who are sick, it is exclusively subject to the Lord´s will.
Therefore, verse 13 speaks to those who are in trouble and experiencing some kind of suffering, but are able to pray for themselves. On the other hand, verse 14 speaks to those who are seriously sick – probably to those who are not able to pray for themselves. Therefore, they are encouraged to call for the elders to pray for them.
The complex harmony of physical, mental and spiritual aspects of a person, therefore, demands a very good system of pastoral care. It is valid especially in these days when a vast majority of Christians suffer in many areas of their lives. James gives a clear instruction that it is the sick person who is supposed to call the elders. On the contrary, the elders should not neglect observing their sheep, since it is definitely a part of their ministry.
James gives a clear instruction that the prayers are supposed to be claimed in the name of the Lord. The elders submit themselves to the Lord´s will. According to the scripture it is not faith of the sick person, but the faith of the elders. In practice it means that the result might be influenced very much by their faith. In practice it means that the elders should seek God´s guidance.
It is also important that the one who prays for the sick has compassion- empathy. He puts himself in the place of the one who comes to him for help. If we are to do His work we should have the same compassionate spirit.