James 5:8
Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.
Original Language Analysis
μακροθυμήσατε
Be
G3114
μακροθυμήσατε
Be
Strong's:
G3114
Word #:
1 of 13
to be long-spirited, i.e., (objectively) forbearing or (subjectively) patient
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
2 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
στηρίξατε
stablish
G4741
στηρίξατε
stablish
Strong's:
G4741
Word #:
4 of 13
to set fast, i.e., (literally) to turn resolutely in a certain direction, or (figuratively) to confirm
τὰς
G3588
τὰς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καρδίας
hearts
G2588
καρδίας
hearts
Strong's:
G2588
Word #:
6 of 13
the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
ὅτι
for
G3754
ὅτι
for
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
8 of 13
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
παρουσία
the coming
G3952
παρουσία
the coming
Strong's:
G3952
Word #:
10 of 13
a being near, i.e., advent (often, return; specially, of christ to punish jerusalem, or finally the wicked); (by implication) physically, aspect
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
James 5:9Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.Galatians 5:22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,Psalms 37:7Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.1 Peter 4:7But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.Philippians 4:5Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.Psalms 27:14Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.Revelation 22:20He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.1 Thessalonians 3:13To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.Micah 7:7Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.Psalms 130:5I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.
Historical Context
Early Christians faced scoffers about Christ's delay (2 Peter 3). James assures diaspora believers that the Judge is near, echoing Jesus' teaching on readiness.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you 'establish your heart' amid uncertainty?
- Who can help remind you of the Lord's nearness?
- What rhythms fortify you for long obedience?
Analysis & Commentary
Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Establish (stērixate, στηρίξατε) your hearts; the Lord's coming is near. James calls for resolute inner strength rooted in eschatological hope.
Reformed perseverance emphasizes heart-fortification through means of grace. Nearness of Christ fuels steadfastness.