From my earliest memories I have had the inclination towards impatience. Family devotions were too long when I wanted to just be done. Dad’s prayers would go on and on while the food got cold. Long trips were unbearable.
Such habits and strongholds formed as a child put down deep roots which may take a lifetime to remove. The theme of my young life was to reach the end of the journey, never mind the process. As an adult and more mature in faith I know better and God continues His work of patience in my heart, “peeling the onion”.
Last year God zeroed in on His desire for me to have joy in patience. Not just enduring but actual rejoicing. Mary is a great example to me as she awaited the birth of Jesus. In Luke 1:46-47 (NIV) she begins her song with the words we remember well, “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has been mindful of the humble state of His servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed.” I want that to be the song of my heart as I patiently wait!
A phrase in Revelation 14:12 has particularly challenged me, “This calls for patient endurance.” I think as pastor’s wives we have learned to endure. But with patience? My tendency is to lean on God to endure, hoping there is an end coming. How about you? Are we willing to PATIENTLY endure? The Holy Spirit often reminds me that patience is a part of His fruit, not a self determination, but an outflowing of Christ’s life through me!
First Peter 1:8 says, “Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy.”
This brings us to patient hope. We patiently wait and long for His return! It gives us motivation to go through the day, working through the responsibilities of our position as mom, grandma, and pastor’s wife with great and patient desire to see Him. How is that going for you? Sometimes it is a natural thing, other times it is a discipline. But we press forward!
One more area to address is patient praying. We have all heard of prayers being answered after many years. Praise God! But I truthfully want my prayers answered now! Ephesians 6:18 says, “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” Perseverance, patience, continuing on. Are we willing to continue to pray without ceasing until we see His answer?
God, produce Your patience through us in every area of life and until we see You face to face!
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