From our human perspective, God often seems slow to act, especially when we are suffering.  In the Old Testament, King David cries out, “how long, O Lord…” four times in Psalm 13.  In the early New Testament days, James encouraged the church to be patient in suffering.  Twice in this week’s passage, James says “be patient.”

Be patient with others like Jesus is patient with you.

1. In verse 7, James uses the example of a farmer doing his work while patiently waiting for the seasonal rains. He cannot do anything to affect the rains. Like the farmer, Christians must learn what their own limits are.  God cannot be pushed to act faster than he decides according to his ultimate knowledge.  Even Jesus in his earthly ministry was keenly aware of the Father’s timeline and could not be pushed to act against it (see John 7:8). 

2. In verse 8, James says for a second time “be patient.” This time he says “establish your hearts.” Both times he mentions patience in light of Christ’s future return.  “Establish your hearts for the day of the Lord is at hand.”  How do we establish our hearts? 
3. Don’t grumble with one another. Instead build up the community of hope.
4. Learn patience from the prophets and steadfastness from Job.

Patience = the self-restraint which does not hastily retaliate against a wrong.

Steadfastness = the temper which does not easily succumb to suffering. 

1. See God’s compassion and mercy (v.11). His mercies are new every day.  Character growth is always a response to his prior initiative in our lives.  It’s all about grace here.

Taking It Home: Patience is listed as a fruit of the Holy Spirit in Galatians 5:22.  Pray for more of the Holy Spirit.