The Word -- all pointing back to Jesus Christ our Lord -- is so beautifully and delicately woven together. In today’s passage, we get a reference that may be easy to overlook yet, “the early and the late rains” are actually quite significant.

In Israel, early rain is known as “Yoreh” and it softens the soil so that a farmer can plough and work the land. This continues through Fall and Winter, until finally, late rains known as “Malkosh” appear. It is during this season that crops grow in the conditioned soil. James starts with a reference to this process and then admonishes us to establish our hearts and wait for the Savior’s glorious return.

Amy and Todd Smith

James 5:7-10

7 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.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ Do you think the farmer has significance in the passage? Who might this signify? [v7]

+ What is meant by “establish your hearts”? [ v8 ]

+ The prophets were a long way away from the Messiah. In verse 10, James used them as an example of suffering and patience. How were the prophets patient?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ What can grumbling do to the “soil” that Jesus in working in the hearts of Body members?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?