LIVING HOPE - Reading With the People of God: Part 18ಮಾದರಿ

Warning and Restoration

A few weeks ago, Quinn had a friend over, who taught my 18 month-old how to run across the couch. Since then, I have warned Quinn many times that running across the couch is dangerous and that he will fall. However, Quinn continues to laugh and run across the couch. Today, Quinn lost his balance and began to topple, but I grabbed him and saved him.

I noticed that in today’s reading, James is not concerned about people running off furniture, but instead is focused on warning believers about the importance of living a godly life. James challenges believers to activate their faith by living honestly and justly, praying often, caring for others, standing firm, and by depending on God alone. James also urges them to be patient. I was convicted by verses 7-8.

James 5:7-8 (NIV), “Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near.”

I struggle with patience. I like to drive fast, be productive and get things done. I struggle with waiting on the Lord, because I can’t see what He’s doing. This is why I was relieved to read the second passage from Isaiah 61. The theme of this chapter is about the hope that comes from the Messiah who will bring restoration and salvation!

Isaiah 61:10 (NIV), "I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels."

I don’t have to sit in shame or focus on my short comings because I belong to Him. He has restored me and covered me. I get to work on patience everyday with God’s help. The reality of God delighting in me, despite my areas of struggle reminded me of little Quinn and his desire to run towards danger. I’m grateful that God sees us and loves us even when we run towards danger or away from Him. And I love how He welcomes us with open arms every time we run back to Him.

Primer contributed by Mekelle Lewis.