We have already meditated on Gal. 6:9 “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” God makes it clear that if we would “reap” spiritually, we must learn patience and not lose heart. So many believers faint right before the harvest!
James is dealing with this same theme of patience under trial. But the Greek word for “patient” here refers to enduring difficult people – not difficult circum-stances. As believers we must endure normal every-day trouble – just like everyone else (Job 5:7). But in addition, we must learn to patiently endure persecution (2 Tim. 3:12).
James depicts suffering believers as “husbandmen” (farmers), waiting for “harvest.” We can endure anything as long as we do not lose hope in God's gracious purposes for us.
'Ye have need of patience.” “Let patience have her perfect work.” We Americans are not especially good at patiently enduring suffering and persecution. We're much better at signing petitions and starting boycotts. God is not in any hurry. He wants to perfect us and let the fruit of the Spirit ripen. Patience, man – patience!
Those who are not saved cannot wait with patience, for they have nothing to wait for. The only thing that is sure for them is “a fearful looking for of judgment” (Heb. 10:27). They cannot atone for their sins by suffering enough here in this life. They must rest in the precious blood of Christ Who suffered in their place and tasted death for every man.
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Bob Vradenburgh is the senior pastor of Friendship Baptist Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. He has spent 40 years in full-time Christian service: the first 20 years as a missionary and the past 20 years in the pastorate. Bob’s passion is the expository preaching of God’s Word,...
