By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  April 23, 2020

In James 5:7, we see patience and perseverance embodied in the example of the farmer: “Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains.” The farmer waits for the crop because the farmer knows that the harvest will be worth the wait.

In the same way, we must be patient as God uses circumstances and situations to mold us into His image and draw us closer to Him. Our natural tendency will be to rush the process God is leading us through—but when we do this, we force God to keep going over the same ground in our lives until we finally learn to trust Him.

When James said, “Wait patiently,” he was not suggesting that we sit back and do nothing. Like the farmer who is actively anticipating the time of harvest, still working after the seeds are planted, so we too are constantly witnessing, praying, interceding, giving, and studying the Word of God so that we may reap a harvest of maturity and wisdom in due time.

When an unanswered prayer, an unexpected event, or relentless spiritual opposition challenges your faith, God is waiting for you to come to Him and ask, “God, what is it You want me to learn? What do You want to teach me?”

The more you know God’s character and promises, the greater your encouragement will be during the fiery trials of life and the greater your capacity will be to wait on His specific timing. When you are tempted to run ahead of or away from God, don’t forget patience and perseverance. Stand your ground and be patient, knowing that the harvest will be worth the wait.

Prayer: Lord, sometimes it’s so hard to wait on You, but I know that You are working out Your purposes. Help me to actively wait rather than falling into idleness as I anticipate the fulfillment of Your promises. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen

“Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD” (Psalm 27:14).