James 5:9-11 Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. (10) As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. (11) Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.

Since the coming of the Lord is at hand, put away those petty arguments you have against one another and remember that the Judge is standing at the door. James is telling believers that there are more important things to spend your time on, and grumbling and arguing isn’t it. Whether it be in your marriage, your family, or with friends or co-workers, we are to stop our grumbling and be patient with one another.

When I think of patience I often think of waiting in line at the store or not jumping in too quickly to help when a small child is trying to do something. But the patience James is talking about here is Job-like patience. He lost his property and belongings, his children were killed, and he became very ill for a period of time. It is not easy to determine how long his affliction took place, but we do know from the book of Job that it was very serious and like no other.

When I think of the patience and suffering of Job, I am always amazed at the level of faith he continued to have for the Lord. His friends accused him of being in sin, his wife told him to curse God and die, and yet he remained true to the Lord and patient in his trials. If anyone had the right to complain and grumble, it would have been Job.

Today we are reminded to stop grumbling against one another and to develop Job-like patience. The Lord sees our heart. When we are irritated at the little things we can not hide it from Him. We need to repent and walk in love and patience toward one another as we eagerly wait for His return.

Prayer

Lord, help me to have the patience of Job. I am so grateful that you have spared me from the misery that he endured. Help me to learn to endure the difficulties I encounter and be patient with those around me today. Amen.