When we believe as truth the saving and righteous work of Christ on the cross, building and advancing God’s kingdom becomes the believer’s work. Every day arrives as an opportunity for us to reveal the character of Jesus for the glory of Father God. This is our purpose while we wait for Christ to return. Certainly, some days we honor and reflect the fruit of his holiness better than others, but we must continue to call on the Spirit to help us guard our thoughts and words. The fruit of the Spirit we are called to produce is: Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Gal 5:22-23). The harvest is coming!
In our passage today, James has a lot to say about genuine Christian behavior. Most people would describe themselves as honest, but some times our words and promises can be perceived by others as hollow. When we do not follow-through when we say we are going to do something, we are misrepresenting the integrity and character of our Lord. James wants us to understand the need for patience, endurance, and the power of a “yes” and “no” to help us produce the fruit of righteousness as we relate to others. Most of the time, we have a clear choice to say “yes” or “no” to a request. So, if you say, “yes” and commit yourself to something then do what you have agreed to do.
James 5:7-12 NLT Patience and Endurance
7 Dear brothers and sisters, be patient as you wait for the Lord’s return. Consider the farmers who patiently wait for the rains in the fall and in the spring. They eagerly look for the valuable harvest to ripen. 8 You, too, must be patient. Take courage, for the coming of the Lord is near.
9 Don’t grumble about each other, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. For look—the Judge is standing at the door!
10 For examples of patience in suffering, dear brothers and sisters, look at the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 We give great honor to those who endure under suffering. For instance, you know about Job, a man of great endurance. You can see how the Lord was kind to him at the end, for the Lord is full of tenderness and mercy.
12 But most of all, my brothers and sisters, never take an oath, by heaven or earth or anything else. Just say a simple yes or no, so that you will not sin and be condemned.
Prayer: Lord, help us to remain patient with people and focused on our purpose while we wait for your return. Continue to form us in your image and help us to be careful when we commit to do something. Holy Spirit, please keep us mindful of your integrity and our responsibility. Fill us with the ability and courage to fulfill our commitments. In Jesus’ name. Amen.