Defining “Patience” = big picture passion
Key Verse: “Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming.” - James 5:7
Point: We know the end of the story = Jesus WINS!
I. 3 Truths Considering “Patience”
Truth 1 - Dry seasons are absolutely necessary to grow the healthiest life.
James 5:7b - “Consider the farmers who eagerly look for the rains in the fall and in the spring. They patiently waitfor the precious harvest to ripen.” (NLT)
Philippians 1:6 - “I am sure that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on that day when Christ Jesus comes back again.” (NLT)
Application: Sometimes we subvert our growth by forcing our agendas.
Truth 2 – Your patience will be tested.
London Street Corner Sign - “Be a patient pedestrian...avoid being a pedestrian patient.”
Point: God may not be in a hurry to fulfill his promises...but he will fulfill them!
James 5:10 – “Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.”
James 5:11a – “As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered.”
Note: Patience and Perseverance:
· Patience = long-term endurance usually related to prolonged suffering
· Perseverance = immediate/short-term endurance to face immediate situations
Jesus – “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 5:10
Truth 3 – God has his purpose for the delay.
James 5:11a - “As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered.”
James 5:11b - “You have heard of the endurance of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.”
Application: We can subvert or support our growth by exercising patience.
Jeremiah 29:11 - “I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
II. Reminders in Developing a Patient Attitude
Reminder 1 - Take the necessary, full amount of time to grow.
James 5:7 - “Be patient, therefore, beloved, until the coming of the Lord.”
James 5:8 - “You also must be patient.”
Application: A mature spirit does not happen overnight.
Key: Listening…asking for the wisdom to know when to move ahead, when to let things rest.
Reminder 2 - Stand Firm.
Note: Sometimes we give up on God too soon.
Key: Be Resolute...hunker down and seek God’s purpose.
James 5:8 - “You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.”
“Stand Firm” = to “strengthen” or to give solid support.”
** Paul mentions it in 1 Thessalonians 3:13 -
“May God strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones.”
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