James 5:10 KJV [10] “Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.” The prophets of old are heroes to all of us. We love to hear the Old Testament stories of how the Lord called and used them. Their messages were bold and straightforward. Their visions and miracles left us in awe of the mighty power of God working through ordinary men. No matter how impressed we may be, we must not forget their suffering. The prophets faced great affliction for the message they delivered. …
“The Judge Standeth at the Door”
James 5:9 KJV [9] “Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.” I have never understood the purpose behind holding a grudge. I am not saying I am above committing this sin, but it makes no sense to spend our days in bitterness toward another person. It is sad when two brothers in Christ are at odds with each other. We should not allow ourselves to become bitter because of the way others treat us. I would be foolish to think I could live in this world any length of …
“We are Getting Closer”
James 5:8 KJV [8] “Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” This verse opens with James reminding us to be still. Don’t get in a hurry, don’t try to get ahead, or worry about the outcomes of life. Just be patient and wait on God. Trust Him even though you may not be able to see or understand what is going on. Secondly, he reminds us to be strong. We are to establish our hearts. We need strong Christians in this world today, because society is as unstable as water. …
“Wait for the Rain”
James 5:7 KJV [7] “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.” The early believers had to live their lives amid difficult circumstances. They faced severe persecution for their faith in Christ. Because their outlook was so dark, James encouraged them with an up look. He reminded them that a better day was coming for the child of God. The admonishment in this text is to be patient. It is a …