The Power of Patience and Prayer

Introduction:

Opening Illustration: Share a story of someone who demonstrated patience and relied on prayer during a difficult time. This could be a historical figure, a biblical character, or even a personal testimony.

Theme Statement: Emphasize the necessity of patience and prayer in the Christian life, particularly during times of suffering and hardship.

Contextual Background: Briefly explain the background of James’s letter, addressing the trials faced by early Christians and the relevance of his message to today's struggles.

Read James 5:7-12

1. Patience in Suffering

The Example of Farmers: Farmers wait patiently for the precious fruit of the earth, knowing the process takes time. Similarly, Christians must wait on the Lord, trusting that He is working in His time.

The Example of the Prophets: Highlight how the prophets, despite facing persecution, remained steadfast in their faith and message. They trusted in God's promises, even when they couldn’t see the results immediately.

Jeremiah—Once thrown down a cistern and yet remained faithful to his calling

Elijah—No fan of Ahab and Jezebel (Israel)

Daniel—Lion’s Den

The Example of Job: Job's story is a powerful example of patience in extreme suffering. His endurance, even without understanding the reasons for his trials, showcases a deep trust in God's character.

Call to Action: Encourage the congregation to cultivate patience, especially in times of hardship, by holding on to God's promises and remembering the examples set before us. And then James throws in a little nugget he learned from his big brother,

12 Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple “Yes” or “No.” Otherwise you will be condemned. [1]

Read James 5:13-18

2. The Power of Prayer

· Before we jump into the text any further let me share with you what Tomothy Keller calls “rules for prayer”

1. Fear God—“have a sense of the seriousness and magnitude of what prayer is. It is a personal audience with the Almighty God of the Universe.”

2. Spiritual Humility—Prayer is not a performance, and it ought not be sugar coated either. Come to God with confession and repentance. “Prayer both requires and produces this humility.”

3. Submissive trust of God—Abandon your own thoughts of glory. It is the “thy will be done” of our prayers.

4. Pray with confidence & hope—expectation that our prayer will be answered.

(read highlights form Timothy Kellers book Prayer pg. 102)

Prayer in Different Circumstances:

In Suffering: When facing difficulties, turn to God in prayer. This is a time to seek His strength and guidance.

In Cheerfulness: When things are going well, don’t forget to praise God. Prayer isn’t just for hard times but should be a consistent part of our lives.

In Sickness: The church is called to come together in prayer for the sick, with the belief that God hears and heals according to His will.

The Prayer of a righteous person?

The Example of Elijah: Elijah, a man with a nature like ours, prayed earnestly, and God responded powerfully. His example reminds us of the potential impact of fervent prayer when offered in faith.

Encouragement to Pray: Highlight the importance of prayer in every aspect of life and challenge the congregation to prioritize prayer, believing in its power to effect change.

Read James 5:19-20

3. Restoring Wanderers

The Call to Restore: Address the responsibility Christians have to help bring back those who have strayed from the truth. This isn’t about judgment but about love and concern for their spiritual well-being.

The Impact of Restoration: Emphasize the significance of this work—restoring a wanderer is saving a soul from death and covering a multitude of sins.

Practical Application: Discuss how to approach those who have wandered with grace, humility, and prayer, aiming to restore them gently back to the fold.

Application:

Developing a Robust Prayer Life: Provide practical steps for building a strong prayer habit, such as setting specific times for prayer, praying Scripture, and praying in community.

Exercising Patience: Offer ways to cultivate patience in daily life, such as meditating on God’s promises, practicing gratitude, and seeking support from fellow believers during challenging times.

Supporting One Another in Faith: Encourage the congregation to actively look out for one another, offering prayer, support, and encouragement, especially to those who are struggling or have wandered from the faith.

[1] The New International Version (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011), Jas 5:12.