James 5:11

KJV

Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

KJV (with Strong's)

Behold {G2400}, we count them happy {G3106} which endure {G5278}. Ye have heard {G191} of the patience {G5281} of Job {G2492}, and {G2532} have seen {G1492} the end {G5056} of the Lord {G2962}; that {G3754} the Lord {G2962} is {G2076} very pitiful {G4184}, and {G2532} of tender mercy {G3629}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Look, we regard those who persevered as blessed. You have heard of the perseverance of Iyov, and you know what the purpose of Adonai was, that Adonai is very compassionate and merciful.

Berean Standard Bible

See how blessed we consider those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen the outcome from the Lord. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

American Standard Version

Behold, we call them blessed that endured: ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord, how that the Lord is full of pity, and merciful.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
James 5:11 offers profound encouragement to believers navigating trials, asserting that those who steadfastly endure are truly blessed. It powerfully illustrates this truth by recalling the legendary patience of Job and revealing the glorious culmination of God's redemptive work in his life, ultimately underscoring the Lord's boundless compassion and tender mercy towards His suffering children.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within James's concluding exhortations, specifically following a series of warnings against the misuse of wealth and a call to patient endurance in suffering. [James 5:7-11](/james/5-7-11 "James 5:7-11 - Exhortation to Patience") forms a distinct pericope on patience, beginning with the analogy of a farmer waiting for the precious harvest and progressing to the imminent coming of the Lord. The immediate preceding verse, [James 5:10](/james/5-10 "James 5:10 - Example of the Prophets"), urges believers to consider the prophets as examples of suffering and patience. Thus, James 5:11 serves as the climax of this argument, grounding the exhortation in a concrete historical example (Job) and culminating in a theological statement about God's character.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The audience of James's epistle was likely Jewish Christians scattered among the nations, facing various forms of persecution, economic hardship, and internal strife. In a world where suffering often led to despair or questioning of divine justice, the story of Job would have been a well-known and potent narrative. The Book of Job, a masterpiece of ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature, grapples with the problem of suffering, particularly that of the righteous. For these early Christians, Job's story provided a theological framework for understanding that suffering, though inexplicable at times, does not negate God's sovereignty or His ultimate goodness. The concept of "patience" (ὑπομονή, *hypomonē*) was not merely passive resignation but an active, hopeful endurance, a virtue highly esteemed in both Jewish and Hellenistic moral philosophy, yet here imbued with distinct Christian theological meaning.
* **Key Themes:** James 5:11 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the Epistle of James. Foremost is the theme of **Endurance in Trials**, which is a recurring motif throughout the letter, beginning with [James 1:2-4](/james/1-2-4 "James 1:2-4 - Joy in Trials and Perseverance"). The verse also emphasizes the **Sovereignty and Goodness of God**, particularly His compassionate nature, which is a counterpoint to the common human tendency to question God's character during affliction. By referencing Job, James reinforces the theme of **Faithful Living and Practical Wisdom**, demonstrating that true faith is not merely intellectual assent but active perseverance that yields blessing. Finally, the verse subtly points to the **Ultimate Vindication and Restoration** that God brings, echoing the broader eschatological hope present in the letter concerning the [coming of the Lord](/james/5-7-8 "James 5:7-8 - The Lord's Coming and Patience").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Endure (Greek, _hypoménō'_):** This verb signifies not merely passive waiting, but active, steadfast perseverance under pressure. It means "to stay under" or "to remain," implying a deliberate choice to stand firm and constant, rather than succumbing to trials or fleeing from them. It speaks to a fortitude that bears up under difficulty with hopeful expectation, rather than mere resignation.
* **End (Greek, _télos'_):** In this context, *télos* refers to the ultimate outcome, conclusion, or purpose God brought about in Job's life. It is not about the termination of Job's existence, but the divine goal or redemptive culmination of his suffering. It points to God's active intervention and the glorious resolution He orchestrates, demonstrating His sovereign control over circumstances and His benevolent intentions.
* **Very pitiful (Greek, _polýsplanchnos'_):** This powerful compound adjective literally means "having much compassion" or "many bowels," referring to the ancient understanding of the viscera as the seat of deep emotions and affections. It conveys an intense, profound, and overflowing empathy. When applied to God, it highlights His immense tenderness, His deep emotional connection to human suffering, and His overflowing pity and mercy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Behold, we count them happy which endure."**: James opens with an emphatic "Behold" (ἰδού, *idoú*), drawing the reader's immediate attention to a profound truth. The term "happy" (μακαρίζω, *makarízō*) denotes a state of blessedness or spiritual well-being, not merely superficial happiness. This clause establishes the core premise: true blessedness is found in those who actively persevere through trials, demonstrating fortitude and steadfastness.
* **"Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord;"**: The epistle transitions to a concrete, universally recognized example from the Old Testament—Job. "Patience" (ὑπομονή, *hypomonḗ*) here refers to Job's remarkable endurance and steadfastness in the face of unimaginable suffering. The phrase "have seen the end of the Lord" is crucial; it refers not to the end of time, but to the ultimate outcome or purpose that God brought about in Job's life, demonstrating His sovereign hand and redemptive plan after Job's period of intense trial. It implies a retrospective understanding of God's ultimate design.
* **"that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy."**: This final clause articulates the grand theological conclusion drawn from Job's experience. The "end of the Lord" in Job's story revealed God's intrinsic character. He is "very pitiful" (πολύσπλαγχνος, *polýsplanchnos*), meaning profoundly compassionate and deeply empathetic, and "of tender mercy" (οἰκτίρμων, *oiktírmōn*), indicating His benevolent disposition and willingness to show grace and kindness, especially to those who suffer. This statement serves as a powerful reassurance of God's loving nature, even in the midst of inexplicable pain.

#### Literary Devices
James 5:11 employs several potent literary devices to convey its message. The opening **interjection** "Behold" (ἰδού, *idoú*) functions as an attention-grabber, signaling the importance of the declaration that follows. The use of **Exemplum** is central, with Job serving as a prime historical and theological **paradigm** for endurance. By invoking Job, James taps into a well-known narrative, allowing the audience to immediately grasp the depth of suffering and the ultimate vindication. The verse also utilizes **Juxtaposition** by contrasting human suffering ("patience of Job") with divine character ("end of the Lord," "very pitiful, and of tender mercy"), highlighting God's compassionate response to human affliction. Finally, the concluding description of God employs **Figurative Language** with "very pitiful" (πολύσπλαγχνος, *polýsplanchnos*), which, as discussed, literally refers to the viscera as the seat of emotion, powerfully conveying the depth of God's compassion and empathy.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
James 5:11 is a profound theological statement on the nature of God and the blessedness of faithful endurance. It asserts that suffering, when met with steadfast faith, is not a sign of divine abandonment but a crucible through which God's purposes are revealed and His compassionate character is demonstrated. The "end of the Lord" in Job's life serves as a powerful testament that God is not a distant, indifferent deity, but one who is intimately involved in the lives of His people, orchestrating outcomes that ultimately display His goodness and mercy. This understanding transforms suffering from a meaningless burden into an opportunity for deeper revelation of God's heart.

* [Psalm 103:8](/psalm/103-8 "Psalm 103:8 - The Lord is Merciful and Gracious")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good")
* [Hebrews 12:1-3](/hebrews/12-1-3 "Hebrews 12:1-3 - Enduring the Race with Perseverance")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
James 5:11 offers immense comfort and a robust framework for navigating the inevitable trials of life. It challenges us to reframe our understanding of suffering, viewing it not as an arbitrary punishment, but as a pathway through which God refines our character and reveals His profound compassion. When faced with difficulties, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual, we are called to embrace a Job-like perseverance, trusting that our endurance is not in vain. This verse encourages us to look beyond the immediate pain to the ultimate "end of the Lord," confident that God is actively working to bring about a redemptive and merciful conclusion. It reminds us that our God is not only sovereign but also deeply empathetic, grieving with us and extending His tender mercy when we are at our weakest. This truth should inspire us to lean into His character, finding strength and hope in His unwavering love, even when circumstances seem bleak.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the example of Job challenge or affirm your current understanding of suffering and God's role in it?**
* **In what specific areas of your life are you currently called to "endure," and how can you cultivate a more hopeful and active perseverance?**
* **How does the truth that "the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy" impact your prayers and your trust in Him during difficult times?**

### FAQ
**What does "the end of the Lord" mean in this verse?**

Answer: "The end of the Lord" (τέλος Κυρίου, *telos Kyriou*) in [James 5:11](/james/5-11 "The Patience of Job and God's Mercy") refers to the ultimate outcome or purpose that God brought about in Job's life. It is not about the end of time or the cessation of God's existence, but rather the glorious culmination of God's redemptive work and sovereign plan for Job after his period of intense suffering. As seen in [Job 42:10-17](/job/42-10-17 "Job's Restoration"), God restored Job's fortunes, blessed him abundantly, and vindicated his faithfulness. James points to this divine resolution as proof of God's compassionate and merciful character, assuring believers that God is actively involved in bringing about a good and merciful conclusion to their trials.

**How is Job's patience different from mere passive resignation?**

Answer: Job's "patience" (ὑπομονή, *hypomonḗ*) is far from passive resignation; it is an active, steadfast endurance. The Greek term *hypomonḗ* implies remaining under a burden without yielding, demonstrating fortitude and constancy. While Job certainly experienced moments of profound despair and questioned God, as seen in [Job 3](/job/3 "Job's Lament"), he never completely renounced God or abandoned his faith, even when his friends urged him to do so ([Job 2:9-10](/job/2-9-10 "Job's Wife and His Response")). His endurance was characterized by a persistent trust in God's ultimate justice and goodness, even when he couldn't comprehend his suffering. This active perseverance, rooted in faith, is what James commends as "happy" or blessed.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While James 5:11 draws its primary example from the Old Testament figure of Job, its profound message of enduring suffering and God's compassionate nature finds its ultimate and most glorious fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Job's patient endurance, though exemplary, was still human and imperfect; Christ's endurance was perfect, a divine and sinless submission to the Father's will, even unto death on the cross. The "end of the Lord" for Job, a restoration of earthly blessings, foreshadows the far greater "end of the Lord" revealed in Christ's resurrection and ascension—the triumph over sin and death, and the promise of eternal life for all who believe. Jesus, as the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "Jesus, the Lamb of God"), willingly endured unimaginable suffering, not for His own sin, but for ours ([Isaiah 53:4-6](/isaiah/53-4-6 "The Suffering Servant")). His suffering demonstrates the ultimate *polýsplanchnos* and *oiktírmōn* of God—the Father's tender mercy in giving His only Son ([John 3:16](/john/3-16 "God's Love for the World")) and the Son's compassionate endurance for humanity's salvation. Therefore, when believers "endure," they do so not merely by their own strength, but by looking to [Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross](/hebrews/12-2 "Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of Faith"), and by drawing on the inexhaustible mercy and grace of God revealed in Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

James 1:12

Blessed [is] the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.

Job 1:21

And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.

Job 1:22

In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.

Exodus 34:6

And the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,

Isaiah 55:6

¶ Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:

Isaiah 55:7

Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.

Matthew 5:10

Blessed [are] they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.