Who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously. – I Peter 2:23
REFERENCE
I Peter 2:19-23
Webster’s dictionary says Patience is “To be able to remain calm and not become annoyed when waiting for a long time or when dealing with problems or difficult people.” It can be arduous since such an expression of Patience contradicts (our fallen) human nature. We often beat traffic lights, are unwilling to stay in queues, become harsh and impatient with a slow motorist with the ‘L’ sign or attendant at the shop, and sometimes get into verbal fights.
Biblical Patience is cheerful endurance and patient continuance. It is the ability to remain calm in the face of difficult circumstances. Jesus modeled this Patience to us when He was accused, wrongly sentenced, inhumanely flogged, and unjustly killed. He did not fight back; He did not call fire from heaven, neither cursed nor reviled His persecutors, but committed Himself to God. That takes Patience – faith in God that He will finally make everything alright.
Are there people you consider to be irritating? Is there a child or spouse you always wonder why they ‘never get it?’ Is there a boss that seems bent on unnerving you? Do you feel like God is slow in fulfilling His word to you? Is there someone you wished you gave a piece of your mind?’ You are poised to bear the fruit of Patience – a test of character. Commit it all to God and rein yourself in. The God Who is slow to anger lives in you through His Spirit.
Patience understands that God is not asleep; he knows everything will eventually turn for good. It is tolerant and full of faith in God, never acting hastily and thoughtlessly (Isaiah 28:16). Patience counts the cost before an irrational act or speech; it is longsuffering and will forgive an offending brother seventy times seven times, seeing God Himself is patient with sinners.
Patience is not a weakness but a powerful weapon to train the flesh in waiting and letting God avenge you. Could you turn it on today? Remember, the pregnant woman has to be patient for nine months, the farmer has to be patient until harvest, and we must patiently wait for the Lord’s coming. The good news is that we will ultimately see the result and reward of Patience.
PHOTO QUOTE
ADDITIONAL STUDY:
II Thessalonians 3:5, Proverbs 16:32, & James 5:7-8
PRAYER:
+ Oh, Lord, give me grace and divine enablement to apply Patience with difficult situations and relationships.
+ I trust You, Lord, with my fights, struggles, and expectations. You will do what is best for me.
+ I declare that I will see the reward of being patient in all i do.
