Just Hold On

GETTING STARTED

In our hurried world, waiting seems like such an unnecessary inconvenience. Whenever I consider waiting or having patience, I lightheartedly picture the old parody of a nervous father-to-be, pacing alone in a waiting room, with not much to do except wait until the door opens with the anticipated news. The best way to bide his time would be to determine how many cigars he’d hand out. He would hope for the best, but would never be quite sure of the outcome.

  • What is your reaction when you’re asked, told, or worse—forced—to wait? What helps get you through?

READ THE WORD: JAMES 5:7-12 (ESV)

7 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. 8 You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.9 Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. 10 As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.

12 But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation.

English Standard Version, copyright 2001 by Crossway Bibles. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

DIGGING DEEPER

  1. What are some ways that a farmer might express patience (vs. 7)?
  2. What is one negative way to respond to waiting? From God’s perspective, how serious is that response (vs. 9)?
  3. James pointed us to the prophets, and specifically to Job, as positive examples of waiting in verses 10-11. What situations or conditions did they face? How did James describe those who remain steadfast in times of struggle (vs. 11)?
  4. What did James declare as the primary motive, rationale, or endgame for “holding on” or for having patience (vss. 7-9)?
  5. Job’s suffering was not a random event, and neither is your present situation; times of trial serve a specific purpose (vs. 11). What are you currently facing that tries your patience? How are you doing with it?

RESPOND TO GOD

James’ entire letter is an appeal to Christians for vital action in consistently living out their faith. The farmer combines patience with steadfastness by working hard while anticipating the precious reward. Waiting (even when suffering) doesn’t allow us to resent others or the situation, because we know God is working out his purpose, which he will accomplish. We establish our hearts as we savor the joy of his personal presence. James knew Christ as his gracious Lord, and he simply wanted more. Seeing Jesus come again in his glory was James’ motivation. Pray: Jesus, I know you are coming back soon as Lord and Judge. Embolden me to live out that reality, no matter what I face today.