James 5:7-11
[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.
Head: What should give us hope and encouragement to be patient and faithful even during tough times? (v.8)
Heart: When things get hard and you feel frustrated, to whom do you vent these emotions?
Hands: How can you remember to express your emotions to God, even your frustration and anger?
This passage is another encouragement to those who are going through tough times. Sometimes we can wonder whether or not God cares or is even there. Don't let your heart be swayed by changing circumstances around you, but stay focused on what you know is true, that Jesus lives in you and His victory is being fulfilled in you.
Verse 9 reveals to us that sometimes, when life hurts, we can be tempted to blame others. But don't take your frustrations and pain out on one another. Rather, be alert and stay grounded in the Lord. Verse 8 encourages us to "establish our hearts" because God is at work and He will guide you through it. There are seasons in which crops grow and there are seasons when they become dry. Know that God is with you and that He will lead you into better seasons.
Remember, countless saints have also gone through vast trials in history. Look to their testimony for encouragement. The key is that they were not perfect, but God was always faithful and delivered them. He is with you and will always be with you.
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Devotional Guide:
1) Pray for understanding in your mind, for trust in your heart, and for powerful obedience in your daily living.
2) Read the passage and mark anything that blesses you, challenges you, or raises a question.
3) Reflect on the passage. What's God saying about Himself? What's God saying about you?
4) Pray in response to what God puts on your heart through the Word.