Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. (James 5:7)
Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the omission of “rain.”
However, “rain” is undoubtedly understood (see Jer. 5:24; Hosea 6:3; Joel 2:23; see on Deut. 11:14). The farmer must be patient for both rains, for without either there would be no crop.
He.
Or, “it.” Either a reference to the “fruit” receiving the rain or to the farmer who regards the rain as a blessing from God.
Long patience.
After the seed has been planted, the farmer can do no more than patiently wait for the growth of the seed. The Christian must expect to have troubles and trials even as a farmer has his troubles and trials in raising a crop.
Precious.
That is, dear, valuable.
Husbandman.
Or, “farmer.” Compare Christ’s analogy that likens the end of the world to a harvest (see on Matt. 13:30; 24:32).
Coming.
Gr. parousia, “presence,”“arrival” (see on Matt. 24:3). Paul describes the coming advent as “that blessed hope” (Titus 2:13). In that day the righteous will be recompensed (Luke 14:14).
Therefore.
Some may be in danger of slipping spiritually because they see the earthly prosperity of the wicked (cf. Ps. 73:2, 3). Others may lose their courage under the incessant oppression of the rich (see James 2:6; 5:6). However, the certainty of the judgment to come and the vindication of the righteous (see on Rom. 2:6) constitute an ample reason for renewed courage.
Be patient.
In view of the ultimate vindication of the righteous at the return of Christ, James urges his fellow believers to be long-suffering under provocation and not to lose their courage. The perspective of the shortness of earth’s troubles compared with the unending joy of eternal life has always been a source of encouragement to the upright in heart.