2. James 5:7-11
Patience in Suffering

3. James 5:7-11
7 Be (1) patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being (2) patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. 8 You also, (3) be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. 9 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 (4) patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 Behold, we consider those blessed who remained (5) steadfast. You have heard of the (6) steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.

4. Be Patient
Be Patient When Experiencing Cruelty (7)

5. Be Patient: Μακροθυμία: (Makrothumia) from makros meaning long and thumos meaning temper. Literally long-tempered.
Merriam-Websters:
Bearing pains or trials calmly or without complaint
Manifesting forbearance under provocation or strain
Not hasty or impetuous
Steadfast despite opposition, difficulty or adversity
“The spirit which could take revenge if it liked, but utterly refuses to do so.”
John Chrysostom

6. Be Patient Be Patient When Experiencing Cruelty (7)
Be Patient When Experiencing Conflict (8-10)

7. Be Patient Be Patient When Experiencing Cruelty (7)
Be Patient When Experiencing Conflict (8-10)
Be Patient When Experiencing Catastrophe (11)

8. Concluding Thoughts
Our instant gratification culture works against developing spiritual patience.
Patience often develops over time and through trials.
Patience requires perspective—an eternal perspective. We place our hope in Christ.
We must recognize that cruelty, conflict, and catastrophe provide opportunities for spiritual growth. We must not waste those opportunities.