The theme of this passage is defining how to be patient in trials. Trouble is an inevitable part of life, and the universal experience of it reflects the reality that we live in a fallen, cursed world. Job declares early in redemptive history “man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward” (Job 5:7). Jesus said in John 16:33, “In the world ye shall have tribulation.” Paul reminded Timothy, “all who shall live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Tim. 3:12). James makes a wonderful case for the virtue of patience as seen in the prophets. As we look at this important principle, may we all determine, by God’s grace, to be people of patience.