Focusing on God in the Ups and Downs of Life

The sermon I heard last Sunday was on James 5:13-20, but focused especially on James 5:13, which says:

Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms.

Basically, when we have downs in life, instead of falling into self-pity, we need to pray.  When we have ups in life, instead of becoming self-absorbed or possessed by possessions, we need to praise God and give Him the glory.

This is very simple, yet so comprehensive. I knew about this verse earlier, but was greatly impacted by it this week. God's word really is powerful!

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.  (Hebrews 4:12)

Keep a Christ-centered life and you'll keep the right perspective!