Having looked this morning at the fate the wicked will suffer, we now examine the case of the righteous as they endure persecution from the wicked. We see:
- What they are to do (James tells them that they are to be patient and strengthen their hearts, to look to the example of the prophets, and not to complain against each other).
- How long they are to do it (Until the Lord comes - which in their case might well have meant the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 but for us is either death or His Second Coming).
- What will be the outcome of their trials (as with the case of Job - the Lord will greatly bless those who faithfully endure suffering).
These words are designed to comfort us in the light and momentary afflictions that we endure here, as we look forward to the glory that is ahead for every believer and that far outweighs the difficulties of this life.
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Shaun Bryant
Shaun has been Pastor at Grace Church in Modesto since late 1993. His journey to the fellowship took him through churches of various persuasions, during which time he became convinced of a call to the ministry and also of a Reformed view of the Scriptures. Shaun completed his studies for the ministry at Westminster Seminary in California. He is married with 3 children.
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