Day 10: Patience in Suffering
Read James 5:7-12
Context: Why does James return to the theme of patient endurance, and how does this connect with his earlier teaching about trials?
There is a flow in what James has been pointing out throughout the letter. The need for godly wisdom, the need for humility, the need to control the tongue, the need for faith to be expressed in works, the need for the church not to favour the rich over the poor – all of this was based on the initial instruction to count it all joy when the believers go through various trials seeing as though trials are to develop steadfastness. The trials that James alludes to can include the economic injustice that sees the poor oppressed by the rich. They will certainly include the forces from within and without to minimise the expression of devotion to God, in case it leaves them open to more oppression and resistance. He is bringing things full circle to highlight how the journey informs the destination. That destination states that we can endure the suffering and the trials to come only as long as we’re aware of what that involves, both as far as what God is doing, what we’re doing and what the world around us is doing.
Content: What examples does James provide of patience, and what motivation does he give for enduring hardship?
Examples of patience include the farmer waiting for his crop, the prophets who were not treated well, to put it mildly, and then finally the way Job remained steadfast. These are given to the readers because of how highly acclaimed those figures are both in what they produce and in terms of how they endure in waiting for the desired outcome. In this, though, the motivation we’re also given is that failure to exercise proper patience, such as if we get into grumbling and complaining, then we will bring about judgment from the Great Judge. There is, then, the motivation for a glorious outcome and reward, as well as the warning of the outcome of failing to heed the warnings James gives.
Concept: How does the promise of the Lord’s return influence how believers should respond to present suffering and treat one another?
The Lord’s return should trigger different responses depending on the expectation of His return. James points out that the return of the Lord is a time for rejoicing, relief and reward for those who have endured until the end. Those who remain steadfast will see the Lord’s return as the ultimate vindication and purpose for keeping on keeping on. Meanwhile, for those who choose not to remain steadfast in their faith in Jesus, they can expect the Judge to render His judgments. Attached to that is the understanding that it is not going to be a pleasant outcome for those who choose not to remain totally loyal to the Lord. That should spur those who remain steadfast to observe how they treat others – a treatment that shouldn’t be about condemnation and dismissal. It should reflect the same loyal love that God demonstrates to us
Conclusion: In what current situations do you need to apply James’ teaching about patience, and how can you better support others who are suffering?
My approach to the church, my approach to relationships, and my approach to the calling of God on my life are key areas that require more application of the teaching that James is giving me. These are areas in which I acknowledge there is a great temptation to veer from the path of steadfastness. The teaching is timely, encouraging me to deepen my connection with Christ and remain steadfast and unmoveable, so I will always be abounding in the work of the Lord.
Next Up – James – Day 11: The Power of Prayer
Read James 5:13-20
Context: How does James’ teaching about prayer serve as both a climax to his letter and a practical response to the various challenges he has addressed?
Content: What different types of prayer does James mention, and what role do church leaders and the wider community play in prayer ministry?
Concept: What does James reveal about the power and effectiveness of righteous prayer, using Elijah as an example?
Conclusion: How will you apply James’ teaching to deepen your prayer life and your involvement in praying for others, particularly those who are struggling spiritually?
It is not easy to remain patient whilst suffering, and this is why God communicates so clearly to us to offer what we can rely on to exercise that patience. That’s another reason to get the Word In so we can get the Word Out!
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
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