December 15, 2018: SOAP #3299:  James 1-5

Scripture:  James (NIV) 5:7 Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.

Observation:  The farmer is patient because he is waiting for a crop that he can harvest.  What he is expecting to harvest forces him to be patient for the autumn and spring rains.

James is encouraging his readers to keep true and stay ready.  Why?  Because there is something coming that will show the value of their patience—Jesus is coming!

Application:  Knowing what lies ahead can be a great help in being patient.  Having something worthwhile to anticipate can help me be patient in the tough times I am facing now.   Jesus has gone to prepare a place for me and He will return to take me to be with Him!   Wow!   That is something to greatly anticipate!!!  Pondering that gives patience and courage to face today!

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, if looking ahead to joining you in heaven brings such joy to my heart, what must it do to your heart!!!   You have invested so much to bring your church to heaven.  Now that the time is so close, you must be so excited to know that soon we will all be together!!!  Holy Spirit, help me to finish victorious and to enter His gates with much rejoicing!  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!