Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary James 5:13

"Is any among you suffering? Let him pray. Is any cheerful? Let him sing praise." — James 5:13 (ASV)

One circumstance that calls for prayer is the experience of being “in trouble” (GK 2802). When such an experience comes, Christians need patience. They are not to grumble in bitter disgust (v.9), nor are they to expresses themselves in oaths (v.12). Instead, they “should pray.” Patience comes from God, and prayer is an effective way to obtain it. James also urges anyone who is in good spirits to “sing songs of praise.” This too is prayer.