PATIENCE
If you are a Christ follower, and have been for any length of time, PATIENCE can seem elusive and even unattainable. Webster defines being patient as; bearing pains or trials calmly or without complaint; steadfast despite opposition, difficulty or adversity. Admirable qualities, Believers and non-believers should strive to attain. It seems apparent, one of life’s greatest difficulties or struggle’s is a need for patience. We are advised as Christians to never pray for patience. Most certainly if we do, the need for patience will surely present itself. As a young Christian I encountered situations requiring patience on a regular basis. I quickly learned, the lesson of patience was not something that came into my life for a little while and left, never to be seen or heard from again. The need for patience was ongoing and frequently needed. Patience could become my friend, if I were willing to embrace God’s purpose for developing patience in my life. It is interesting, before accepting Christ, I gave little thought to patience. Most certainly I was an impatient person, with a companion, temper problem. That is not a pretty combination. I am very thankful, during the forty two plus years I have been a Christian, God has been faithful to develop patience in my life and heal the temper problem. I still become impatient, at times, in some situations. I do find I am much better at accepting circumstances, and waiting for God to work out the details.
I want to soar above the problems and circumstances I encounter in my life! In other words, not allow difficulties to define me, or keep me from living a happy and productive life. Many times we allow situations over which we have no control, to disrupt our lives to the point, we become angry and unable to exercise patience. If left unchecked, we are soon anxious and short tempered at even the smallest occurrence. We can find ourselves losing sleep, at odds with family or friends, and just unhappy in general. God knows, in life, we will encounter difficulties. He tells us in 1 Peter, we should not think it strange or be surprised by life’s fiery trials. James 1:2 advises to count it all joy when we fall into various trials. Life is filled with trials! It’s not that we are going to have problems! It’s what we do in the face of our problems! God’s plan and purpose is that the problems we encounter in life, mature us and teach us to trust Him!
Isaiah 40:31 NKJV “But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint”. God shows us, if we will trust Him, believe that He is who He says He is and we are who He says we are, good results await us!
Some scripture verse’s I encourage you to read are; James 1:2-4, 1 Peter 4:12-13, Romans 5:3-4, II Corinthians 12:10, Philippians 4:6 and Matthew 6:25.
I am convinced, PATIENCE is fuel God has provided to help us on our faith journey!
Prayer: Father, mold me and make me into the person you created me to be. I trust you and embrace the work you are doing in my life. Thank you for loving me, and caring about my life.