Patience Reveals Faith

Patience

I must say patience is something I struggle with. The true test of patience comes when we feel violated, When a car cuts us off in traffic, when we are treated unfairly. We feel like we have a right to get upset in the face of irritations and trials. Impatience seems like a justifiable anger. The Bible praises patience as a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) which should be produced for all followers of Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:14). Patience reveals our faith in God’s timing, omnipotence, and love.

Perseverance

Most people think patience is a passive waiting or gentle tolerance. Hebrews 12:1: “Therefore since we also are surrounded with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily besets us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us”. We don't run a race by passively waiting for the slow or gently tolerating cheaters. The word translated “patience” in this verse means “endurance.” A Christian runs the race patiently by persevering through difficulties. In the Bible, patience is persevering towards a goal, enduring trials, or expectantly waiting for a promise to be fulfilled. It doesn't develop overnight. Your relationship with God is crucial to the development of patience. Colossians 1:11 says we are strengthened by Him to “great endurance and patience,” God promises that our patience is rewarded in the end. 

Trials
We should rejoice in God’s will (Philippians 4:4; 1 Peter 1:6) even if it is not our own. I used to think I had to enjoy it to rejoice in it but we don't have to enjoy it we just have to do it. Second, we seek His purposes. I believe sometimes God puts us in difficult situations so that we can be a witness. Other times, He might allow a trial for us to build character. Remembering that His purpose is for our growth and His glory will help us in the trial. Third, we remember His promises such as Romans 8:28, which tells us that “all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” The “all things” include the things that try our patience. Praying that everyone has a great day! Help us reach more people by sharing!