Christian Free-Lutheran Church -- Sermons and Services -- James 5:7-12

James 5:7-12
Pastor Eric Swenson
Christian Free Lutheran Church Wheatland, IA

July 11, 2010

Be Patient till Christ Return

Makrothumia translated patience or longsuffering
Makros = long, thumos = temper
Longsuffering is that quality of self-restraint in the face of provocation which does not hastily retaliate or promptly punish, it is the opposite of anger, and is associated with mercy, and used of God.
Patience is the quality that does not surrender to circumstances or succumb under trial.

I. Patiently waiting for the Harvest
   A. God is preparing your heart for a great harvest
   B. God desires unity not complaining against one another

II. Patiently waiting as a witness for God
   A. The encouragement of the prophets
   B. God provided for Elijah through the drought; I Kings 17:1
   C. God provided for Joseph through all his difficulties of life; Genesis 37 - 45

III. Patiently waiting through trials
   A. The endurance of Job through his difficult time
   B. God is there to help you through trials

IV. Have your yes be yes and your no be no
   A. Fulfill the vows that you make
   B. Make no oath at all
    Heaven = the throne of God
    Earth = footstool
    Jerusalem = the city of the great king
    Your head = you cannot make one hear white or black