James 5:10 Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
As with our verse yesterday in Hebrews, the recipients of James’ letter were also facing persecution and oppression. They were getting discouraged, which is why James wrote to them. He wanted to encourage them to persevere and not give up. They were Christians, which we know because he addressed them as brothers and sisters. And it is in that context that we find today’s verse.
What is a prophet? The definition states it is a person regarded as an inspired teacher or someone who proclaimed the will of God. A prophet differed from a priest in the direction the message was flowing. For example, a prophet spoke to the people from God. A priest spoke to God for the people. So why were prophets not always looked at in a positive light? Because repentance takes change. It requires effort. They did not like the message from God they were being given by the prophet and the old adage “Don’t shoot the messenger” comes into play. And since the people didn’t like what the prophets were telling them, the prophets faced oppression and persecution.
It was these prophets that James was referring to when he told his brothers and sisters in Christ to be patient in the face of suffering. We need to remember that serving God does not guarantee an easy life. But we know that despite that, God sustains us through hardship. Suffering for one’s faith is something we can expect, not a sign of failure.
Whatever you are facing, whatever you are going through, don’t give up. Don’t get discouraged. Be patient. If the prophets were able to endure the oppression for speaking God’s Word, you can make it through your trials, too. He will fill you with peace and give you the patience you need to endure. Just trust in God to be your strength.
Prayer: Lord, I want to have the same patience the prophets had. Fill me with both peace and patience as I wait for Your will to be done. Amen
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