Waiting Well

Patience in Suffering

(James 5:7-15)

7Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer awaits the precious fruit of the soil—how patient he is for the fall and spring rains. 8You, too, be patient and strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near. 9Do not complain about one another, brothers, so that you will not be judged. Look, the Judge is standing at the door!

10Brothers, as an example of patience in affliction, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11See how blessed we consider those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen the outcome from the Lord. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

I was struck by two points in this passage.  

1. Do not complain about one another.  Having read 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 yesterday, I was reminded by Paul that I should be looking at the heart of my fellow Christians.  They aren't trying to sabotage but to serve.  Therefore, my attitude should be one of humility and camaraderie with my fellow Christians.  

2. James encourages us in our waiting.  Waiting isn't something new to Christians in the 21st century.  James reminds us that we have all waited for rain for our plants with hope and anticipation that it will come.  Similarly, we can wait in hope and anticipation for what God is doing in the circumstances in our lives.  As one who is currently in a time of waiting, I pray can wait in hope because I trust my God is working things out according to His plan.  Moreover, if we fix our eyes on the Kingdom of God, we remember that these are "light and momentary troubles."