What Does It Mean To Practice Patience?

James 1:2-8

Thesis: To show how to develop biblical patience.

Introduction:

1. Are you a patient person?

2. How do you handle trials in your life?

Discussion:

Let us consider…

I. The meaning of “patience.”

A. The Greek word is hupomone (#5281) or “an abiding under.”

B. A different word conveys with whom you have patience (people)1; this word

expresses under what conditions your patience lies (things).

II. The methods of patience.

How does one obtain patience? (See James 1:2-3)

A. You must have a trial (v. 2).

B. That trial must test you (v. 3).

C. You must endure that trial (v. 3).

III. The magnitude of patience.

A. Paul says that growth includes faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control and patience.

B. Like self-control, patience prevents sin.

C. Patience helps you maintain God’s world-view (Jam. 5:11).

Conclusion: What do we learn?

1. Christians are to be patient.

2. Patience leads to a better life.

  1 This word is makrothumia (#3115). It’s practical definition is “extension of time” (Mt. 18:26, 29; Lk. 18:7; 2 Pet. 3:9; et. al.).