Read: James 5:7-11

Memory Verse: James 5:8

Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.

The best way to wait is to stay busy. The farmer in the field waits for the rain by preparing his field and planting the seed. The soldier on the battlefield waits for the enemy to come by digging foxholes and reinforcing his position.

We know that the attack is going to come. God warns us of the attacks in Ephesians 6:10-13 as well as many other passages in the Scripture. Use your time wisely. Prepare for the enemy by reinforcing your position in Christ, putting on the Armor of God, and getting your weapons ready for battle.

Reinforce your position in Christ. Make sure that you have confidence in your own salvation (1 John 5:12-14). Know what you believe and why (1 Timothy 4:13-16 & 1 Peter 3:15). Be sure that you are in the right place spiritually.

Put on the Armor of God each day. Soldiers in Afghanistan and Iraq would not walk out of their rooms without putting their armor on. Even while you are waiting, you cannot relax and let down your guard.

Get your weapons ready for battle. One of the first things soldiers do when they arrive at their assigned position is to assess where the threats are and establish strong points where the enemy might attack. It is important to establish and prepare your weapons in a way that provides the most effective coverage.

Meditation for the Day: Evaluate each place (work, home, etc.) in your life. How can you be better prepared for battle in those places?

Assignment: How can you use your “wait” times (on hold on the phone, waiting for an appointment, etc.) more effectively. Possibly memorize verses, read your Bible or Christian book on a phone app, prayer?

For Fun: If the Bible were written today, which weapons would God choose as object lessons?