James 5:13 (KJV) says, “Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.”

That verse is short, but it’s a whole prescription for life right there. James is saying, “Whatever season you’re in, talk to God about it.”

If you’re hurting, pray. If you’re happy, praise. Either way, stay connected to the One who holds you together. Prayer and praise are like the two wings of faith, when both are moving, your spirit soars.

Sometimes, we get it backwards. When we’re hurting, we run to people first instead of to God. And when we’re happy, we forget to thank Him because we’re too busy enjoying the blessing. But James reminds us that whether you’re crying tears of pain or tears of joy, God wants to be part of both.

So today, if your heart is heavy, pray. Pour it out before Him. If your heart is light, sing! Lift up a song of gratitude. Either way, turn your face toward Heaven and keep that line open.

Because prayer invites God into your pain,

and praise invites God into your peace.

And when God’s in both, life stays anchored in grace.