Therefore be patient, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. (James 5:7-8)
In our culture, speed is an asset—it is efficient, it is convenient, and many times we feel like it makes life easier. In all of this, we are prone to look for quick fixes and move to other solutions when our efforts don’t show results quickly. With this in our nature and our culture, it can be challenging to take heed of James’s words in this passage. We may be able to quote the old cliché “slow and steady wins the race,” but this is harder to practice. We may know we need to slow down but we don’t know how to do it.
James gave the picture of one who continues to work over a long time, without quick results or the guarantee of success. Patience isn’t absent of movement, but it is a commitment to practicing perseverance, trusting that one day results will come. This is our call as disciples of Jesus. We need to continue to pursue the Lord, expecting Him to change us from the inside out and bring fruit that comes from abiding in Him.
Our call then is clear, instead of trying to find quick solutions or build a façade that will impress others, we are to strengthen our hearts in patience and waiting. A strong faith takes time, consistency, and commitment to continue walking with Christ even as we wait for results.
- What are the ways you have sought to grow in your faith recently? Have you been patient or impatient in the process? Why?
- How can you grow in discipline and consistency? How does this passage encourage you even if you don’t see immediate results?
- Pray and ask God to strengthen your heart and grow your patience.
