Waiting and Praying (James 5:7-18)

Sermon on 18 May 2025 by Pastor Justin

Introduction

Waiting and praying are the most important tools that the Lord has given us.

Message

Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. - James 5:7-8

Waiting is to be patient and persevering in faith. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit. When you wait unto the Lord, you wait with faith, and endurance. Waiting is enduring hardship and trusting God’s timing. God allows us to wait because we are not ready; He may also require us to wait for other things to be settled.

That you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. - Hebrews 6:12

Your faith walk is a journey. It is not a sprint; it is a marathon. It is not about how fast you go, but how much you hold onto your faith and knowing your identity as a child of God.

1. Waiting is active, not passive

Waiting is being patient in faith, persevering in faith, and trusting in faith (Galatians 5:22; Isaiah 40:30-31; Psalm 27:14).

But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. - Isaiah 40:30-31

Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord! - Psalm 27:14

Waiting on the Lord is a posture of strength and trust. Waiting on the Lord is preparation, provision and protection.

James also told us not to grumble as we wait (James 5:9-12). While we wait, remember the compassion and mercy of God. Remember Job who waited patiently on the Lord and eventually, God gave him twice of what he had lost.

Waiting on the Lord is to have conversation with God, through prayer. Faith and hope are active. Pray in faith.

2. Praying is our default and habitual way of daily living

Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. - James 5:16

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Prayer is about building a relationship with God. It is an act of faith and dependence on God. Prayer is a lifeline connecting with the God of the universe. Prayer is a discipline. Prayer is our default and habitual way of living.

Waiting is to prepare, protect, and propel you (Romans 8:28). Praying is to align your will with His will (1 John 5:14). Remain steadfast and keep moving forward.

Closing

Waiting and praying are the two most powerful actions for believers. Wait on the Lord in faith and pray in faith!

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. - 1 Corinthians 15:58