James has some tough things to say to the ungodly rich in this world (See Blog post below, The Unsaved Rich), and how they mistreat God’s people. Look what he writes.
James 5:4-6
4 Behold, the pay of the laborers who mowed your fields, and which has been withheld by you, cries out against you; and the outcry of those who did the harvesting has reached the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. 5 You have lived luxuriously on the earth and led a life of wanton pleasure; you have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned and put to death the righteous man; he does not resist you.
Notice in verse 4, those who did the harvesting cried out to God. Why? Injustice. Their pay was withheld. Now notice the name James ascribes to the Lord. “the Lord of Sabaoth.” Sabaoth means “armies,” or the Lord of armies, or the Lord of hosts. If one day we should experience injustice, remember, the Lord of armies is watching, and is ready to repay.
Romans 12:19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY," says the Lord.
How are we to act and live in the meantime? Read the next verse.
James 5:7-8
7 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. 8 You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.
When the Scripture say the coming of the Lord is near, we must understand the scope of the ages. The age in which you and I live is referred to as "The ends of the ages (1 Cor. 10:11) and The consummation of the ages (Heb. 9:26). It's almost over for mankind here on this sin cursed earth. His coming is near! When the Lord comes, He will repay. He’s coming with His armies. It’s going to be a wonderful day for us, but a day of wrath and judgment for them. May we live with "Patience."
My next post will ask the question, “What will happen when Jesus comes again?”
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