This post by christinecoltman was originally published at GRACE PLACE
James 5: 7-20
In chapter 5: 1-6 James has been addressing wealthy Jews who are living in the lap of luxury and oppressing those beneath them. He doesn’t pull his punches and calls them out for their greed, selfishness and sin.
Now he turns to address the saints with an encouraging word as he finishes off his letter.
Read James 5:7-12
These verses contain a number of straightforward commands that God, through James, gives us, using the imperative form of speech (giving a command). He gives us two things to do, and two things not to do – what are they?
We can perhaps describe the first two of these commands (v.7 & 8) as relating to our upwards-looking relationship with God, and the second two (v.9 & 12) to our outwards-looking relationships with each other.
In v7-8 note how many times James uses the words ‘patient’ and ‘wait’. He uses the example of a farmer who, having sown his seed, has to wait patiently for the rains to come and the harvest to ripen. There is nothing the farmer can do to hasten the growing process, he must simply wait. But he knows it will be worth the wait.
Why do you think James uses the example of the farmer when talking about the Lord’s return?
What do you know about the return of the Lord Jesus? Look at these passages and list 5 or 6 things that are stated:
Matt. 24: 36
Matt. 25: 31-34
1 Thess. 4: 16-17
What do think James meant when he said in verse 8 that ‘the Lord’s coming is near’?
Knowing that Christ will return and we will live with Him forever is a powerful motivator to holy living while we wait.
James exhorts believers in verse 8 to stand firm (some versions say ‘Establish your hearts’). What does this mean? How are you standing firm in your own life? Are there situations or circumstances where you find it hard to stand firm?
What will help us to stand firm? Look at Eph. 6: 13 and following.
James encourages us to persevere in our faith just as the prophets and Job did in their day.
As you turn to prayer now:
- Praise God for the glorious fact that Jesus will return and we will live forever with Him.
- Ask God to help you to be patient, to persevere and to stand firm in your faith, particularly in those areas where you feel weakest.
- Praise God for the armour He provides for us and ask Him to help you use it every day.