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Scripture and questions for study and reflection:

Read James 5:7-12.

1. Today James talks a lot about patience. According to verse 7, what did the people need to be patient about? What do we need to be patient about today?

2. What analogy does James use in verse 7 to help the people understand patience? Do you find that analogy helpful?

3. What are some things in your life that you have to wait for (be patient) that are totally worth the wait in the end? How can this help us better understand our need for patience in awaiting Jesus\\u2019 return?

4. Pastor Mick discussed thinking of patience as \\u201chopeful anticipation.\\u201d What did he mean by that? Do you like that definition? Why/why not?

5. Why do you think James tells us not to grumble against one another in verse 9? What is the danger of such grumbling?

6. Why do you think James references Job and the prophets when he talks about patience and perseverance through suffering? What can we learn from them?

7. In verse 11 James talks about how we are blessed when we persevere through suffering. What does he mean? How does James 1:2-4 help us better understand what James is talking about in verse 11?

8. How did Job ultimately experience that \\u201cthe Lord is full of compassion and mercy\\u201d as James says in verse 11?

9. Why is it important not to swear, but to let our \\u201cyes\\u201d be yes and our \\u201cno\\u201d be no? Was there ever a time when we lived like that? What was life like then?

Prayer for the Week:
Gracious and loving God, we confess that we are an \\u201cinstant gratification\\u201d people who do not like to wait. Help us develop patience as we wait upon you, O Lord, for your leading and even your return. When suffering comes our way, give us the strength to endure it, persevering through our deep and abiding connection with you. Help us not to grumble at each other in the midst of suffering, but rather lift one another up in prayer and help each other in tangible ways. As we stand firm in you, Lord, help us to receive the full measure of your compassion and mercy. We pray all of this in the strong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.