Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Patience


Colossians 3:12 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”


Psalm 27:14 “Wait for the Lord; Be strong, and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord.”

Patience: definition - bearing pains or trials calmly or without complaint

In America, we are use to getting whatever we need or want almost instantly. Whether it be food where we have drive thru’s, or talking to a friend through a quick text message, everything we do can be done in an instant. Yet, when it comes to our Christianity or dealing with other people and their decisions that affect us, we may not be able to control how quickly something is accomplished.


There are many instances in the Bible where we see patience exercised. In the story of Joseph, he was falsely accused of a crime and put in jail for years before he was let out and then promoted to 2nd in command over all of Egypt. In this story, it first seems like there’s no way that anything good could come out of Joseph being stuck in prison. But, during that time of waiting and patience, Joseph met some very important people who would help him make his way up to second in command. Also, while he was in prison, he was helpful to other prisoners by interpreting their dreams. When one of the prisoners got out before Joseph, the prisoner was able to tell Pharaoh about Joseph when Pharaoh needed one of his own dreams interpreted.


We can learn from this story that there is much good that can come out of waiting and being patient. God can be setting the stage for a future destiny through circumstances or relationships we may not currently understand. When we are at a point that exercises patience, we build our trust in God. Sometimes it seems that the longer we wait, the more trust we have knowing that God will provide and do just as He promises us in His word. During the time that we are waiting, there are truths and understandings that God can reveal to us that will help us in the future. The Bible reminds us in Psalm 46:10 to “be still and know that I am God.” The times that we are waiting patiently for a breakthrough, although it may be difficult, are the very times that God can reveal to us an understanding and revelations that we have been waiting to hear.


Whatever may be testing your patience, remember that God is still near in every situation. Know that your patience is only making you stronger and preparing you for a great future!