Patience is Not An Option

Most of us recognize that patience is a characteristic we all desire, but we’re just not in a hurry to obtain it.  Some define patience as a delay in getting what we want. Margaret Thatcher once remarked: “I am extraordinarily patient, provided I get my own way in the end.” In today’s fast-paced society and self-centered culture, patience is quickly disappearing, even among Christians.  Patience however, is not an option for a Christian. 

Patience is a recurring theme in James.  In chapter 1, verse 12 James tells that “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.”  Patience and endurance makes its appearance again in chapter 5 several times, reminding us to be patient in the face of suffering. 

James gives us three pictures of patience to encourage us.  First, he tells us to be patient like a farmer waiting for the harvest.  Any of you who garden or grew up in a farming family understand how dependent farmers are on God’s provision of the weather and seasonal changes.  Too much rain will cause a crop to rot, too little rain causes drought.  Plant too early or too late and the risk of frost will kill your crop.  The image of a farmer reminds us that faith involves trusting God with what we can not control.  But a farmer doesn’t just sit back and wait for the rain or the sun, he continues to work.  Likewise, a prophet who spoke God’s word spoke out boldly, despite the persecution they endured.  And Job, poor Job.  It took him 42 chapters of suffering in His life and only in the end did he confess,  My ears had heard of you, but now my eyes have seen you.⁶ Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes.(Job 42:5-6)

Whatever trial you are walking through at this season in your life, remember…this is not the end of the story.  The end will reveal that the Lord is indeed “very compassionate and merciful”, just as James said.  I am learning to be patient as I sit through long chemo treatments and wait on the Lord for ultimate healing.  I don't know for certain if I will be cured of my cancer in this lifetime.  I do however know that healing awaits me in glory, when I will be given a new body, which will be free of all sin and disease.  In the meantime, I will patiently wait on the Lord and allow Him to use me and my suffering to bring Him glory. My suffering is a blessing and a joy when I can encourage others to persevere their own trials.  More importantly, I hope my cancer journey and suffering with patience will point others to the saving power of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Patience is a test of a Christian’s genuine faith.  And dear friends, we better learn it quick.