James 5:7-11 / Our Discomfort

James finishes his condemnation of the oppressive rich in 5:1-6 and now turns to the oppressed poor (5:7-11). Right now they’re living in a rough situation. What are they supposed to do while the injustice continues to affect their lives? James provides his answer: be patient.

Use these questions below as you think through and meditate on the passage this week:

  • What is the first command in James 5:7?
  • How does James address his readers in 5:7?
  • What example does James begin with in 5:7?
  • In how many ways is this an appropriate example? (5:7)
  • There is another command given in 5:8. How is this related to the first? (5:8)
  • How do you think the command in 5:9 fits in with the prior commands? (5:9)
  • How should the Judge standing at the door affect their approach to life? (5:9)
  • We have a second example of patience in 5:10. What does this add? (5:10)
  • There is a third example in 5:11. Is this an example of something different than the prior two? Why or why not? (5:11)

As the Lord leads, read through James 5 this week. Meditate on James 5:7-11. Hide God’s Word in your heart as you memorize James 5:12.


Passage: James 5:7-11 (ESV)

Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. [8] You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. [9] Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. [10] As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. [11] 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.