SATURDAY February 1, 2020
Blessed Endurance
My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. Indeed we count them blessed who endure.
James 5:10-11
James gave the whole point of this passage; it was to help believers be patient as they endured the trials of life, while having confidence in Christ’s coming. The word patience means “to be longsuffering, steadfast and enduring.” Christians could overcome the enslaving power of discouragement and defeat that Satan would try to sweep over their souls. They could establish their hearts in the hope of His coming.
In his encouragement to the brethren, James had used an analogy of a farmer (James 5:7). A farmer, while planting his fields, wonders if he is going to have a good or bad year for crops. Despite the outcome, every year he will diligently water and prepare the soil for planting. Then he has to be patient and wait for the produce to grow to reap the benefits. What a beautiful picture this is for us in this world, as we continue to sow and reap in the work of God and wait patiently for the Lord’s return.
James also spoke of the suffering and afflictions of the prophets. They had great patience and endured in their trials, having the surety of eternity in their hearts (Hebrews 11:32-40). The apostles also stood fast as they battled with trials and persecution. They even thought it worthy to suffer for Christ’s name (Acts 5:41).
As a believer, you will go through times of suffering. Yet set your eyes on the Lord’s return. Time is running out for this wicked world; it could be ever so close and happen at any moment! Christ’s soon return is imminent. However, no one knows the day or hour of His return. Patience, longsuffering and steadfastness will help you to endure trials while you wait. It enables you to move forward––onward––never to give up. Build endurance. Remember, what you do for the Lord is never in vain.
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
~1 Corinthians15:58~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!