1. Throughout his letter James recorded a number of instructions that are designed to help us become the kind of people that the Lord wants us to be. 2.In our lesson we are concentrating on an admonition that James gave twice in these verses: "be patient."
Discussion:
I.LET US FIRST DEFINE "PATIENCE"
A.The Bible contains several words that are translated "patience." B.One word can also be translated "longsuffering." 1.This is the spirit we are to have while we go through periods of waiting. 2.This kind of "patience" is illustrated by the farmer (James 5:7). C.Another word can also be translated "endurance," "steadfastness," or "perseverance." 1.We develop this type of "patience" as a result of going through difficulties. 2.This is the type of "patience" mentioned in James 1:3. D.Christians are to develop and demonstrate both types of "patience." E.Now that we have defined "patience," let us show . . .
II.WHY WE MUST BE PATIENT (3 reasons)
A.First, the Bible repeatedly teaches us to be patient. 1.(Luke 21:19) Jesus said, "In your patience possess ye your souls." 2.(Romans 12:12) Christians are to be "patient in tribulation." 3.(1 Thessalonians 5:14) "Be patient toward all men." 4.(Hebrews 12:1) We are to "run with patience the race that is set before us." B.Second, "impatience" will have a harmful effect on us. 1."Impatience" will cause a person to quit or give up. 2.Jesus illustrated this point in His parable of the sower (Mark 4:16-17). 3.A person who quits following the Lord will lose his soul. C.Third, the Bible shows how "patience" will help us. 1."Patience" will help us in bearing fruit (Luke 8:15; John 15:8). 2."Patience" will help us as we wait to receive God's promise. a.This point is made in Hebrews 10:36. b.This point is illustrated by Abraham (Hebrews 6:15). 3."Patience" will help us to avoid falling away (2 Peter 1:6, 8-10). 4."Patience" will help us when we pray (Psalm 40:1). D.Now that we understand why we must be patient, let us consider several passages that teach us . . .
III.HOW TO DEVELOP PATIENCE
A.When we face trials, we must ask for wisdom (James 1:5-6). B.We must develop the right kind of love because "charity suffereth long" (1Corinthians 13:4). C.We must look to positive role models such as: 1.Christ (Hebrews 12:2-3) 2.the prophets (James 5:10) 3.Job (James 5:11). D.We must learn to "wait upon the Lord" (Isaiah 40:28-31).
Conclusion:
1.In James 5:7-8 the admonition to "be patient" is given twice. 2.These verses also mention "the coming of the Lord" twice. 3.This lets us know: a.how long we must be patient -- until the Lord returns b.another reason why we must be patient -- the Lord will return and give a reward to those who have served Him faithfully.
