Patience In The Face of Adversity

As we continue in this season of advent, that is this time of expectancy. The expectancy of the coming of the Lord. Many of have become excited about Christmas and the birth of Christ. However, we are more expectant of gifts to make us happy, than we are of the coming of our Savior. People were going through difficult times as they waited on the coming of the promised Savior. And likewise, we are too. But what are we to do while we wait? while people continue to hurt us. While we’re being shot by the police, while the law is stacked against us. While we protest but little changes.

James here ends this letter, by address what he opened with. He opens with general trials but here address a specific one.

The Exhortations To Patience

James gives the believers three exhortations to patience.

Be patient therefore, that is to demonstrate patience despite difficulties. To be even-tempered while enduring trying circumstances. Pointing back to verses 1-6.

Establish your hearts, to cause someone to become stronger in the sense of more firm and unchanging in attitude and belief.

Do not grumble, to complain, conceived of as vocally indicating pain, discomfort, or displeasure in an articulate manner.

What does it mean to be patient until the Lord’s coming? It means to do what God also is doing: enduring human evil for a season.

What does it mean to be patient until the Lord’s coming? It means to do what God also is doing: enduring human evil for a season.

The Reasons For Patience

James gives four reasons why believer should be patient.

The Lord is coming of the Lord v. 7

The example of the farmer v. 7-8

The coming the Judge (Lord) V. 9

The example of

The prophets, someone who speaks in behalf of and interprets the will of a supernatural being, often rebuking or predicting events.

Steadfastness of Job, the capacity to continue to bear up under difficult circumstances. Being able to endure. Job continued to endure, to face and withstand with courage.

The purpose of the Lord. God wants to reward you for your patience.

So next time you are faced with trials.

The next time you deal with evil people. The next time you find yourself a victim of circumstances. The next time the boss plays with your money. The next time a coworker crosses you. The next time a family member mistreats you. Keep your composure. Be patient, because will show for you.

Just keep doing good, because it will eventually pay off.

Despite all of the opposition Jesus faced, He kept doing the will of God the Father, that’s why He’s no longer in the grave, but sitting at the right of the Father, will all power in His his hands.

Patience will pay off, if you just wait on the Lord.

Before you say another word, wait on the Lord

Before you take another step, wait on the Lord.

Before take matters into your own hands, wait on the Lord.

But they who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.