Read James 5:7-12

Read James 5:7-12

Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near. Don't grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!

Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

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.

Reflect

Patience is right up there among the hardest character traits to demonstrate. It just doesn't come naturally, and in the everyday circumstances we face, it can sometimes seem almost impossible. Yet patience is possible because God is absolutely dependable and in control. And because he's compassionate, he'll give us what we need to persevere.

Respond

Where is your patience being stretched today or this week? Pray for God to give you what you need today to meet that challenge, and ask for a renewed awareness that God's presence in your life is an absolute certainty.