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 ESV)
Fear Not… Then be Patient
There is a strategy in chess called The Sicilian Defense. It involves moving one’s pawns in a particular way that sets up a zone on the board that the black player can cover. I used it a number of times, years ago, but never successfully. The Sicilian Defense never seemed to work for me.
But I have discovered why.
I used to set it up… and then attack from it.
But the Sicilian Defense requires patience.
It works best when the Defense is set up… and then you wait. Trusting that it will work.
Just like one of those spiders that waits in its nest.
Just like a carefully defended national border.
Just like a Christian… knowing that God has things under control.
Just like a Christian… knowing that Jesus IS the best defense.
Just like a Christian… knowing that ‘the end’ is already known by Jesus, and He is coming.
Fear not, then be patient.