Intro: People who spend time in the Word of God understand a day of judgment will one day arrive. Scripture offers us warnings, as well as promises about that approaching day. Prophets have been sent throughout the ages to warn people about being on the wrong side of God—living in ungodliness—while waiting, because the day of judgment for the world is the day of reward for the Church (Mat 5:11-12).
In our passage today, James wants us to be patient with people. To be specific, believers are to be patiently enduring for the glory of God. Patience is frequently developed in the lives of believers during moments of suffering; it is a spiritual fruit that is very desirable to the Lord, but takes time to ripen. Developing patience takes courage and humility. That means we may have to patiently endure mistreatment without grumbling while are waiting on our reward. Let’s be real, suffering mistreatment is a difficult place, because we are dealing with unkind, uncaring, or ungodly people. I don’t know anyone who has endured mistreatment without grumbling except Jesus. Grace is essential for those who want to develop genuine patience; therefore, we must persevere in Christ. How patient are you with people who mistreat you?
James 5:7-11 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.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for helping us as your children develop more of your character each day while we wait for your return. We ask for you to develop patience within us knowing it means we will experience pressing moments. However, you have promised to use our difficulties for our good and in a way that brings honor and glory to you. Daily