For the past few months, I have been reflecting on the difficulties of adulthood. Life is not that easy to navigate, (and living in Jamaica does not make it easy either). After all, there are economic issues, coupled with the influx of crime and violence. I know this difficulty rests in our hearts. There is a list of demands on our lives. There is so much to do, many people and things to prioritize. Work, education, family, church, our own well-being, our social lives, chasing after our dreams and aspirations, quiet time with God, and more. Despite these struggles, in Christ, there is hope for us all. We can all navigate life well.

But how does one do that? What are the best practices? 

I believe James gives us a simple yet effective strategy in chapter 5:13. It says: “Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.” Of course, in the grand scheme of things, there is more to this Scripture. There are backstories and a specific context for why he said this. However, I am of the view that as is, this bit of advice will help us in the long run. 

James shows that on this journey of life, we generally find ourselves in one of two categories. We either will have a good moment or a bad moment. Christians will not always be on the “up and up”. We are still humans in a sinful world that is not devoid of suffering. James admonishes his audience to evaluate the moment they are in and respond accordingly. Therefore, in moments of suffering, grief, and despair, one should use the opportunity to pray to God. On the flip side, in moments of delight, joy, and happiness, one should use the opportunity to praise God. Whether in suffering or joy, the way we respond to life reveals our faith.

So, what practical lessons can we garner from this verse?

Lesson One: Our response to life should be God-centered
Psychiatrists and counselors would tell us to focus on what we can control in all situations. The trouble that we face may be out of our control, but the way we respond to them is. As such, we need to look to God at all times and in every way. So, in trouble, we should pray. Suffering should be seen as an avenue to approach God’s throne to receive grace and mercy in our time of need. This method works. I am a testimony. I recall the time my dad had surgery. I felt a bit helpless because life could have changed for my family in an instant, and not in the best way. The most I could do was talk to God. The Lord granted me peace and strength in that period and surrounded my family with much love through community. The surgery went well, and Daddy is doing well, sharing jokes and listening to music like he usually would.

Also, I’m reminded of the fact that Jesus modeled this idea of “praying in troublesome times” for us. He did it throughout all of His ministry. Even when He was on the cross, He prayed, committing His spirit into the hands of His Father. In His suffering, He prayed. For us, I know that this is a tough thing to do. Our human nature often wants us to cling to our vices which offer temporary ease. But truthfully, no one else has the power to transform a bad issue into a good one, or even transform us to navigate trouble well. 

In addition to having a God-centered response in bad times, in joyful times, we should praise. Praise is a way of expressing gratitude to God for who He is and what He has done. We duly acknowledge Him. When we do this, we place Him at the forefront of our minds and point others to do the same. Also, it is a way to draw closer to God because inhabits our praises. Our spirits are renewed and so much more. A God-centered response should be the most appropriate response when we are navigating life.

Lesson Two: In all moments, our God is reachable
This verse serves as a reminder that God is with us, enabling us to navigate life by His grace. We can call on Him at any time and worship Him no matter what life throws at us. Back then, the Levitical law allowed only the priests to access God through sacrifices in the temple. The rest of the Israelite community could not do so. Because Jesus came and died for us, we don’t have to do that anymore. Anytime, anywhere, He hears and responds to us. Therefore, we can be assured that God is truly faithful to His children. He does not abandon us in difficult times as humans sometimes do. Rather, Psalm 46:1 reminds us that He is a very present help in times of trouble. In the same breath, He is equally present in our triumphs. We can reach out to Him through praises and thankfulness in good times. It is through this we realize how good He is. We come to bask in His faithfulness and love. Also, in doing so our love for Him deepens and our faith is strengthened.

What’s next?
Put these lessons into action. Reader, I encourage you to take your problems and successes to Jesus – whether in busy or quiet moments. Call on Him in good and bad times. Remain connected to God through prayer and praise. Let them anchor you in every season. Let us navigate life well, being assured that He is always faithful and near to us.

^{Photo by Anna Might Take Pics}