For today, we're going to be in the book of James.

James is in the New Testament.

It's a small book after the book of Hebrews and before 1st Peter.

James was written by one of Jesus' little brothers.

It's interesting to think about that.

Mary and Joseph had children after Jesus, and James was one of them.

And so he wrote this book of James, only five chapters, only 108 verses.

But if you love the Proverbs written by Solomon in the Old Testament, you'll love

reading through the book of James.

You can read through it.

You can start now.

You'll be done by the end of the service.

But if you want to follow

along, follow along with me in chapter 5, starting in verse 7. The first four chapters of James,

encouragement to persevere through suffering, quick to listen, slow to speak.

James tells us to keep a tight rain on our tongue, but for today we're in chapter 5,

verse 7, and it says this, be patient then, brothers, until the Lord's coming.

See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains, you too be patient

and stand firm because the Lord's coming is near. Don't grumble against each other, brothers,

or you will be judged. The judge is standing at the door. Brothers, as an example of patience in the

face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.

As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered.

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