“Thoughts on Prayers” James 5:13-18, Ryan Laughlin

                                                           Sermon Discussion Questions


1) Read over the text: What does James so about prayer?

2) Do we believe that our prayers are powerful, as the text says?

3) Prayer

        A) Is for every situation: We usually are quicker to go to prayer in times of suffering. What does the text say about cheerfulness? How do we practically incorporate praying in every situation in our lives?

       B) Is for every weakness: “People can dress the wound, but God heals us.” (Sermon quote) When we think of praying for weakness, do we think holistically? Praying for spiritual, physical and emotional weakness. Is this difficult sometimes? Discuss.

      C) With every confidence
               What does the text say about confessing to each other?
True healing takes place when our sins/struggles are brought to the light. As believers we can boldly approach the throne because we are clothed in Christ’s righteousness. Is this truth comforting? Does this truth change the way we approach prayer and confession?

4) We are given the example of Elijah in the text. How is this encouraging?