PATIENCE

noun

1. the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset.

   "you can find bargains if you have the patience to sift through the dross"

Life Questions

How patient are you? In our first world realm, we can easily be drawn to an unrealistic expectation, entitlement and demand for instant gratification. Sometimes the pain of the process is difficult, unbearable and wearisome. What are some things you have a hard time being patient and waiting for?

As an important theme in scripture, Patience is a virtue for all of us to learn and build upon in our lives. Take some time to soak in these few verses.

Psalm 40:1 I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. Proverbs 19:11 A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense. Romans 8:25 But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently. Romans 12:12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 1 Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. Galatians 5:22,23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Ephesians 4:2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Colossians 3:12 Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 1 Thessalonians 5:14 And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 1 Timothy 1:16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. James 5:7 Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. James 5:8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near. 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:15 Bear in mind that our Lord's patience means salvation, just as our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. Revelation 3:10 Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come upon the whole world to test those who live on the earth.

Faith Questions

What or who do you have a hard time being patient for or with today? Take a few deep breaths and reflect for a few moments on how merciful and patient God is with you.