James 5: 7-9 (ESV) “Be patient therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold the Judge is standing at the door.”
Let’s face it, we live in a society that demands instant gratification. And let’s be sure, that is the way of the world and not God’s way. Think of the patience that the Father extends towards us every day. Remember the patience of Jesus “who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross.” Endurance, steadfastness, perseverance, and patience seem to be interchangeable words in scripture. None of these words mean a quick result.
Sometimes I don’t think we even see that the world’s ways have crept into our thoughts. Our thoughts turn to, “Why doesn’t God do something?” We are busy asking for a solution to a problem, while the Holy Spirit is trying to grow our character. I will never get my answer until my character is changed. I’ve had to learn that the hard way.
Let me give a physical example: I was a short kid, but my sophomore year in high school I grew nine inches. That kind of growth hurt all the time especially in my legs. Yet when it was over I was tall and strong. Spiritual growth will be painful, yet it is necessary for us to endure it with patience. We come out much better on the other side.
Now I wish to concentrate on is verse nine of the quote from James (this is important). “Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged.” I was extremely guilty in the past of grumbling about my brothers and sisters in Christ. Guess what? It was impossible for me to grow in my faith until the Spirit dealt with me about that. And since I was so stubborn, He had to make it hurt.
If we grumble, if we judge, if we condemn each other, there will never be any unity. And if no unity, we will hold back the Holy Spirit’s ability to correct us and also to comfort us. It is imperative that we are patient with each other. We must show each other mercy. Be gracious. Be kind. Be helpful with compassion. And be loving. We walk together as one body! Yes, we are separate parts, but all joined together as one. Don’t tell any part of your body, “I don’t need you.” And certainly, never look down on another as inferior to you. It is unrighteous and dangerous!
Ephesians 4: 31-32 “Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
Amen?
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