Re:Verse passage – James 5:7-11 (day five)
“Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.”
I am by nature a visual learner, meaning that often times I can understand or grasp a truth or principle if I can see it or visualize it. I suspect I am not alone. Our Re:Verse passage this week has helped me see (in James’ word pictures) that patience is not an inactive or idle task. Whether in waiting or suffering, patience goes hand in hand with activity. While the farmer waits for the rain, he still must work and tend the land. Weeds removed. Fertilizer added. Patience while waiting requires me to tend my heart (the soil of the gospel).
Patience while suffering looks like activity. See what the prophets did? They spoke the Word of God. When I suffer, I can do the same thing. First, I can speak the promises and character of God to myself, then by His grace I can share it with others.
Whether I’m waiting and/or suffering, James shows me what I can do. I can work and serve, I can preach and teach (to myself and others). Thank you, Lord for your helpful pictures and wisdom!
Spot on! Word pictures help me too. Thank you Scott.