Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord.
—James 5:7
Impatience is a common trait.
Many people lose their patience while waiting in line or holding on the phone.
James wrote to believers who were struggling with being patient for Jesus’ return.
They were living under exploitation and distressing times.
James encouraged them to be patient.
He challenged them to persevere under suffering.
He stimulated them to stand firm and to live sacrificially until the Lord returned to right every wrong.
He wrote: “Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand” (James 5:8).
James called them to be like the farmer who waits patiently for the rain and the harvest (James 5:7).
He called them to be like the prophets and the patriarch Job who demonstrated perseverance in difficulties (James 5:10-11).
The finish line was just ahead and James encouraged them not to give up.
When we are being tried in a crucible of distress, God desires to help us continue living by faith and trusting in His compassion and mercy.
The way to great patience is through great trials.
