James 5:7-11 (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. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. 9 Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door! 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. 11 As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. 1. The Christian life is hard 2. We must patiently endure Questions to ask yourself during seasons of waiting and hardship: What fruit is God trying to produce in my life? What is God trying to prune from my life? Is there something God is trying to reveal to me about myself? Is there something God is trying to teach to me about himself? How does God want to use me to be a blessing and encouragement to others? 3. Jesus is coming back again