Some Bible translations use the term, "suffers long" for the word "patient". Patience usually involves delayed gratification. It is not only waiting... but how we wait. It's an attitude. The Bible talks of patience, specifically in the life of Job.
"My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord as an example of suffering and patience. Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord- that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful." (James 5:9-10 NKJV).This type of patience means enduring, staying the course under pressure. It's easy to love and be loving when things go our way and people like us. It's another thing to show love when we are not getting what we want in the way we want and how we want it or when people are meanies to us.
When we are impatient, it reveals a "me first" attitude. This is rampant in today's society... and I hate to say it... rampant in my own heart at times. I admit it. I need more patience. But patience comes at a price.
"My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience." (James 1:3-4 NKJV).I'm not afraid to pray it... "Lord give me patience." How about you?
No comments:
Post a Comment