“Beware of anxiety. Next to sin, there is nothing that so troubles the mind, strains the heart, distresses the soul, and confuses the judgment.” William Ullathorne
Are you a patient person? I am ashamed to say that it is really something I need to work hard on! If there is any quality I need in my life today, it is patience. I experienced a situation last weekend that I became so absorbed in that it ended up taking control of just about all of my energy. (I crashed my computer!) One thing led to another until I was so stressed that I felt sick inside. The problem is that when I need a situation or condition worked out and/or resolved, I want it to happen now! Anxiety and lack of patience can keep me thinking obsessively about something until it completely monopolizes all of my thoughts and time, but stepping back and calming down will actually move me ahead more effectively than nervous, anxious energy. Why is it so hard to wait sometimes? I have learned over and over in many situations that if I just wait on the Lord, doors open and I am directed, supplied, and protected.
Consider how many difficult things would be made less difficult with a little patience. Patience is the work of God, and He is committed to building patience and perseverance in our lives so that we may be able to resemble His own character. When we exhibit patience not only does it get us through the circumstances of life, but it can transform our lives and the lives of those around us with His love. Isaiah 30:18 says “But God’s not finished. He’s waiting around to be gracious to you. He’s gathering strength to show mercy to you. God takes the time to do everything right-everything. Those who wait around for Him are the lucky ones.” (The Message) Patience is hard (I expect everyone struggles just a little bit!) because too often we run ahead of God and miss His direction for our lives. If we have Godly patience and are able to trust God with what is before us, then we will experience a calmness and inner peace because we know He is in control and His way is best. He wants us to see Him in the center of every circumstance and wait patiently on Him so that we are better able to see Him at work and receive the blessings He is waiting to give.
Consider how many difficult things would be made less difficult with a little patience. Patience is the work of God, and He is committed to building patience and perseverance in our lives so that we may be able to resemble His own character. When we exhibit patience not only does it get us through the circumstances of life, but it can transform our lives and the lives of those around us with His love. Isaiah 30:18 says “But God’s not finished. He’s waiting around to be gracious to you. He’s gathering strength to show mercy to you. God takes the time to do everything right-everything. Those who wait around for Him are the lucky ones.” (The Message) Patience is hard (I expect everyone struggles just a little bit!) because too often we run ahead of God and miss His direction for our lives. If we have Godly patience and are able to trust God with what is before us, then we will experience a calmness and inner peace because we know He is in control and His way is best. He wants us to see Him in the center of every circumstance and wait patiently on Him so that we are better able to see Him at work and receive the blessings He is waiting to give.
“We also pray that you will be strengthened with His glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need” (Colossians 1:11)