The Wise Wait

After putting attention on those who oppress and persecute Christians (James 5:1-6), James turns to how Christ-followers are empowered to respond in the face of mistreatment. His invitation is challenging and proactive. He calls them to wait.

Waiting isn't something we often do well. When we can get packages delivered the next day or our food order just an app tap away, waiting isn't naturally cultivated in our lives. The waiting James exhorts faithful followers isn't passive but is active. He calls us to have the patience of a farmer, strengthen their hearts, and endure like the prophets.

Like a farmer, we are to engage in the work we are responsible for. We live with expectation and hope of the Lord's return relying on the power of the Spirit (who produces supernatural patience in us.). In the middle of the uncertainties of life, we intentionally strengthen our hearts by focusing on what is true about who God is and discerning the difference between truth, lies, and lies that sound like truth. This is done together, in the context of community.

And like the prophets, who trusted the character and nature of God, endured suffering by looking ahead to how God would ultimately bring restoration (even though they didn't quite know what that would look like.) We are invited to live life in the present with eternity in view. Like Jesus, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, we also have the capacity to endure with the joy set before us!