James 5.8-9
“You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brothers.”
God calls us to build the discipline of patience into our lives. The admonition in this verse to “establish your hearts” reinforces the call to be patient.
As we navigate the events, situations, and challenges of a fallen world, we need a heart that is established and strong. The verb that is used here for “establish” is sterizo. It also appears in Luke 9:51, where it says that Jesus “fixed his face” to go to Jerusalem and to all that awaited him there. In this example from the life of Jesus you can feel the force of the verb sterizo: determination, resolve, persistence, courage, and strength.
Maintaining patience and perseverance in the midst of the challenges of life and work requires a strong heart, a heart that is “established and determined.” This means a heart that is fully given to Jesus. We should not be surprised when we encounter obstacles and problems. We should be sterizo.
But again, our response to challenges depends on the condition of our hearts. If we are self-centered and walk in the old nature, we will be discouraged, impatient, and fearful. But if we trust God and walk in the Spirit, we will experience the fruit of the Spirit, and we will be patient and steadfast in response to whatever situations we encounter. We will be sterizo.
Is there some area of your life right now where you are impatient? It could be toward a person you work with (or live with). It could be toward a plan or a project you are working on. It could be toward a process you are trying to implement (or change). It could be toward a particular situation you are dealing with.
Whatever it might be, is there some area in your life right now where you are impatient and your focus is drifting, your motivation is diminishing, and your energy is declining? If so, that is your old nature at work. The Spirit is calling you to trust God and be patient and persistent; he is calling you to refocus your mind and rekindle your energy for solving the problem or resolving the issue or reaching out to the person.
Here’s the point: Impatience distracts and demotivates. It is negative energy. It diminishes your focus and weakens your perseverance. Can you see why patience is a fruit of the Spirit? Patience gives you the focus and perseverance necessary for doing the work that is required, dealing effectively with people, and having the right attitude while you do so.
Let’s be clear. Our old nature is self-centered. It indulges selfish impulses, it produces impatience, and it gives up easily. Our new nature is Christ-centered. It is strong and courageous because it focuses on the truth of scripture and trusts in the power of God. It produces patience, perseverance, and relentless problem-solving.
Let us respond to the call of Christ to operate in the world with the patient and persistent power of the Holy Spirit.
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in your troubles, be constant in prayer.” (Romans 12.12)
