Patiently Waiting

“Be patient, brothers and sisters, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it … You too be patient … Do not complain … against one another, so that you may not be judged.”—James 5:7–9 NASB

James knew that the followers of Jesus had much to learn from farmers. When we think about farmers, we realize that they have clear goals to produce abundant harvests.

Farmers also realize that this takes time and careful planning. They need to be patient and understand the principles of sowing and reaping. If they want a harvest, they need to sow seeds at the right time of year in the right soil. And they need to let these seeds grow for the right length of time. If they are faithful and persistent, they will reap a harvest—but only at the right time.

As believers, all of us need to be like farmers, sowing seeds with the time, talents, and treasures we have been given, making sure that we sow into good soil. We should be persistent. If we don’t immediately see the blessings God has promised, we must not become impatient. If we don’t experience immediate answers to our prayers, we must not give up. Instead, we must continue to have faith, trust in God, and remember that our lives have seasons.

Make sure you are applying these principles in your life. Ask God to free you from any anxiety, help you be persistent, and persevere as you serve Him. Keep sowing seeds with the resources He has given you. Continue to seek first His Kingdom. Never give up. Stay faithful. Trust Him!

Reflection Question: What seeds are you sowing into God’s Kingdom this week?