Established
We have been looking at James 5:7-11
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.
We have talked about patience and observation. Today we look at what it means to be established.
Have you thought about the word “establish”?
Here is its definition:
1. to institute (something, such as a law) permanently by enactment or agreement
2. to make firm or stable
3. to put on a firm basis
4. to make (a church) a national or state institution
So what should you do with your heart?
Make it firm, put it on a firm foundation, put it in agreement with God, enroll it in an institution…in this case, the body of Christ.
James is telling us it is time to choose. You have been called into the body of Christ. Will you live a life that builds upon the foundation that has been given to you? Will you live in accordance to the institution? Will you live as a child of hope, knowing that the day of the Lord is coming? No matter what lies ahead here on Earth, the Lord has shown He will neither leave you nor forsake you.
Want a good way to build on the foundation that has been given to you?
See you Sunday
- Pastor Dan