Steadfast in Suffering, James 5:7–12, Amy Katterson 11.8.23

Steadfast in Suffering, James 5:7–12 Life in this world, life after the “great catastrophe” of sin is hard. Will it always be this way? How do we remain steadfast?  This week’s text, James 5:7–12, gives us a theme or banner for a faith-filled life in a broken world: patience. What does patient fortitude look like in your situation? Clinging to the promises of God in the middle of the “invisible” season of waiting.  Establishing your heart to follow Christ and to do whatever the will of God holds for you. Calling to mind and living in light of the soon return of the Lord Christ.  Humbly repenting of a grumbling heart and seeking to point out evidences of grace in one another instead.  Following in the footsteps of other patient and hope-filled believers and running with perseverance the race that is set before us. (Find a treasure trove of audio messages sharing such stories here: Biography Messages by John Piper) Trusting the merciful, compassionate purposes of God even when you don’t understand. Being a woman of your word and trusting God for the outcome. We press on in patient fortitude, knowing that “when [we] have stood the test, [we] will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12). May the Lord find us and keep us faithful.