JAMES 5:7-12 WAITING IN FAITH
7 Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. 9 Don’t grumble against each other, brothers, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door! 10 Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 As you know, we consider 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. 12 Above all, my brothers, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your “Yes” be yes, and your “No,” no, or you will be condemned.
Impatience is another form of arrogance for those who are in the Church. If we believe in a sovereign God and acknowledge that he has the perfect plan, then who are we to place our agenda, or at least our time table above his? Sure, it might appear optimal for us on a particularly good day spiritually, or perhaps even in a time of severe trial, to question the delay in the Lord’s return. But once again this would be self-centered thinking. God’s plan considers the universal picture and not just the tiny detail of the scene in which we dwell individually. The humble servant is one who waits patiently on the Master and is ready at all times to answer his call.
Likewise, it takes a humble heart to exercise forbearance with our brothers in the Church and perseverance in the face of the actions of our enemies. Only if we trust God and his overall plan will we be able to stand firm in this life. Our dependence must be upon God and not on our own abilities or the people and things of this world. If we have a single focus in life, and that focus is the sovereign God, then our lives will be characterized by integrity. Such integrity of living will be the proof of our truthfulness that transcends the need for dramatic vows.
Performing the tasks God has called us to do, trusting in God’s will, and patiently waiting in anticipation of the fulfillment of his will through our Lord’s return are the marks of the life of steadfast dedication to God.
O Lord God, save me from the presumption of attempting to impose my expectations and schedule on your perfect plan. I know by faith that you have already accomplished the justification of your people and that you will return at the perfect time to consummate the promises you have given. May I always work within your plan in trustful obedience to your will. Amen.