Review James 5:7-12 and focus on vv. 9-11.
1. When we deal with any difficulties in our own situations, we are tempted to turn on those around us to blame them, especially when we cannot blame anyone else! What warning does James give about that problem?
2. What two other examples of patience does James give to help believers deal with difficulties that come from other people (vv. 10-11)?
Stronger Jeans (optional): What do you know from your previous Bible study about the patience, or long-suffering of the prophets? Review the story of Jeremiah, who is a perfect example of what James describes here.
If you are familiar with the story of Job, you realize that he questioned God; he was angry about his situation; and he wasn’t patient with other people. It is encouraging to me, though, that despite those things, he is an example of patience. Maybe our definitions of patience are not complete!
3. Anyway, look at these verses and write down what you do learn from Job’s example of endurance or patience:
5. Responding to God: Write a prayer, poem, or song based on James 5:11 and the mercy and compassion of God.
4 comments:
My mom waited patiently when I went through a funk stage in my late teens and early 20's. It was a very difficult time for her but she never gave up. She continued to love me even though it made her heart ache to witness the poor decisions I was making. She was my beacon back home. Thank GOD!!!
I'm not sure how to answer today's sharing question. I want to, but I can't think of a time right now where I've been long-suffering.
I would say I learned patience as a teacher. I was surrounded by teens who were selfish, disobedient, lazy and strong-willed. I finally realized that I too was all of these things. God loved me even though I treated Him with so much disrespect. I decided that I would love my students too, no matter what.
I;m still waiting for the breakthrough in our situation and trusting God that we will soon see His blessings for trusting and hoping in Him through this difficulty.
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