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. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.
James 5:7-8

My sinful nature demands instant results. I want God to answer my prayers right now, on my terms and on my schedule. But that attitude simply means that I’ve forgotten who’s in charge, and who is serving whom.

A farmer, after sowing his field, waits for the crop to ripen, trusting that the seed is working under the ground even though he can’t see it.  To “establish your heart” means to set your heart to wait for what you know is coming, trusting that God will keep His promises and answer your prayer.

I met a young man yesterday, whose family had asked for prayer for him, months ago; he was in prison in another state on the far side of the country, lost and running away from God. We prayed together for him.

Yesterday he showed up with his Dad at the food pantry. I got to talk with him, pray with him, and learn that he had met the Lord in prison, before he was released.

To pray is to put the problem into God’s hands, surrender it to Him, and trust Him to answer it according to His plan and according to His timetable. After praying, set your heart to wait, patiently trusting in Him. He has it, now.

Lord, Your will, Your plan, Your purpose and Your  timetable in my life are all I need. Firm up my heart to wait patiently,  trusting in You. Amen.

Pastor Dan Giles