The Virtue Of Patience (Part 1)

Patience is one of those qualities that does not come naturally for most people.  When it comes to exercising patience, many are like the individuals in a popular TV commercial for a company that negotiates structured settlements where the people shout "It's my money and I want it now!"  Most of us want things "NOW!"

However God's plan for patience in our lives is much different.  Patience is "the will to wait on God without irritation, frustration, worry, anxiety, fear or anger."  God's plan is always the better plan.

When God is working in your life, it's vital that you allow Him to work at his timing.  Remember, "the greater the blessing God has in store, the greater patience He requires."

What Patience Is Not

• It is not a natural trait.   Waiting goes against most peoples natural inclinations.
• It is not a "gift"; it is a fruit of the Spirit.
• It is not a weakness.  Actually patience demonstrates great strength on the part of an individual.
• It is not avoiding adversity.  A person with patience will face adversity head on.
• It is not false hope.  In other words patience isn't a quality where we just hope things will turn out in our favor.
• It is not instability.  People who exercise patience should not be viewed as "passive."  Actually they are being proactive in dealing with problems. 

 

In my next post I will cover some of the attributes of patience and why it is so important in the believers life.

Pastor Temple