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Author: Jeanne Kun, a member of the Bethany Association, an association of women living single for the Lord in the Sword of the Spirit.

Stand Firm!

In the letter of James, he writes, As an example of suffering and patience, … take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. (James 5:10-11)

In his letter, James encourages us to take Job as a model of patience in suffering. But do I rightly understand the meaning of patience? If I regard it as a passive sort of tolerance, a trait of those who are lethargic or weak, how wrong am I!

In the language of the Bible, patience is a hallmark of strength. It’s the capacity to persevere and endure adversity and hardship without falling apart. It can steadily bear up in the face of difficulty over the long haul.

Patience also builds character. So, if you “keep on keeping on” with active determination and perseverance when you meet with suffering, trusting in God’s love and care for you, you’ll find yourself growing into the likeness of Christ. It’s been said, “If you seek patience, you will find no better example than the cross.” Don’t forget: it was by patiently enduring his sufferings on the cross that Christ brought about our salvation.

Today, ask the Lord to help you stand firm in times of testing and in any adverse circumstances in your life. Model yourself on the steadfastness of Job—and on the patience of Christ—and you, too, will be blessed.

Scripture quotations are from The ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.