In his three years of ministry, Jesus often shared ideas, stories, and principles related to farming and agriculture. James followed in his brother's footsteps in this way because farming was such a relatable medium, especially in that day and age. So much of the farming process could be translated into spiritual truths, and so many of the people listening to Jesus or reading James' letters would have a deep understanding of the process of farming and what James was attempting to convey.

In today's passage, James refers to a farmer and how he patiently waits for the land to yield its valuable harvest. The mindset of a farmer is a good mindset for how we should look at many things related to the spiritual. James also refers to the autumn and spring rains, or as some translations say, the early and latter rains. The early rains, which came in late October or early November, were essential to soften the ground for plowing, and the latter rains, which came in late April or early May, were essential for the maturing of the crops shortly before it came time to harvest. Timing and the ability to recognize the seasons were essential if you wanted to feed your family or have any success in farming. Without the early rains, the ground would be too hard and not be able to be prepared for seed. And if you weren't prepared to plow at the right time, the weeks of rain would be wasted. Without the latter rains, the harvest may be stunted or withered, so the farmer needed to be patient and not attempt to harvest the crop too soon. Once again, we must understand that this type of patience is not taking a nap or being lazy. This type of patience is active; working the ground, fertilizing, watering, and pulling weeds, yet still waiting patiently for the coming harvest season. This is the spiritual mindset we should have; the mindset of a farmer. They became skilled at practicing active patience, waiting for the right time, but doing what must be done in the meantime.

This is a similar skill that a follower of Christ must develop in their lives, especially in the area of relationships. Relationships need to be tended to like a sprout that grows from nothing. If you want strong and healthy relationships, you better be prepared to pour into them. You had better be ready to plant the right seed and weed out all that doesn't belong; jealousy, bitterness, and pride. Out of all things in life we could invest time, energy, focus, and finances into, relationships are the most demanding. Relationships require constant attention and maintenance to remain healthy and vibrant. James urges his readers not to grumble against one another, something that is common when a person gets impatient or frustrated. Grumbling soon leads to rifts, quarrels and division. Instead, we need to show grace to people and not be quick to be angry and bitter. The same judgment that you hold in your heart against a brother or sister will also be used against you.