James 5:7,8 – “Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.”
The dictionary defines patience as “the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, problems, or suffering without becoming annoyed or anxious.” Patience is not a virtue that most of us possess. We can tolerate delays, problems and suffering, but only to a certain point. When our patience is tried, we tend to become irritated, frustrated or angry.
James reminds us that we must be patient even when our impatience can be justified. The early Christians faced untold suffering while their persecutors seemed to prosper. We cannot even compare the troubles we face with that of the early church. And yet, James urges them to be patient. How can we be patient in difficult circumstances? We can hold on to the hope of the coming Christ. He will set right all the wrongs done to us, and reward every person according to the work of their hands.
Just as a farmer might have to endure a drought, we may have to endure a period of dryness in our personal lives. But it won’t be for long. The rain is coming! God never goes back on His promises, and those who hold fast to His Word will experience abundant showers of His blessing in due time. Hold on, dear friend! God will turn your dry land into a bountiful garden that glorifies His Name.
