Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praises.  Jacob (James) 5:13, TLV

It’s pretty straightforward, right? Having a rough time? Pray. Feeling good? Sing praises to the LORD. I don’t know about you, but I need reminding of this.

When a disappointment comes, or bad news, what do I usually do? React. Anger. Fear. Then I complain to others — usually my poor husband. Or I take my mind off the problem with entertainment.

On the other hand, when I’m feeling good I’m usually not thinking about praise and worship. I’m just reveling in the fact that I’m happy. Then I do something I want to do to celebrate.

Behold, we consider blessed those who showed endurance. You have heard of the endurance of Job, and you have seen the outcome of Adonai—that Adonai is full of compassion and mercy. (vs. 11, TLV)

Yeshua’s brother, Jacob uses Job as an example. Really? Job. That’s a pretty intimidating role model. Even Job’s wife wanted him to curse God — and die — but Job wouldn’t (Job 2:9). He wanted to be obedient. Throughout all his trials, he wouldn’t curse God. He questioned. Mourned. Grieved. Yet still didn’t doubt.

I pray none of us have to suffer through everything that Job experienced, but the point is, we need to remember the simple fact. Go to our Heavenly Father, first. When there is something wrong and when everything is right. Consider ourselves reminded.

Shabbat shalom.