Nurturing Patience
Trust in God’s Timing
We live in a world that thrives on instant gratification, where patience often feels like a forgotten virtue. We’re accustomed to fast food, express deliveries and immediate responses. The concept of patience holds great significance in our spiritual journey, especially when it comes to waiting for God to work in our lives.
As we embark on our April Bible Reading plan centered on patience, it’s essential to understand why this virtue is not just desirable but crucial for our growth as individuals and as believers.
The Essence of Patience
Patience is not just the ability to wait. Patience is an attitude we adopt while waiting. It’s about trusting in God’s timing and understanding that God is always in control. We encounter many stories throughout the Bible of individuals who exercised patience amidst trials and tribulations, ultimately witnessing the miraculous outcomes of their steadfast faith.
Consider Abraham, who waited years for the fulfillment of God’s promise of a son. Despite his advanced age and Sarah’s barrenness, Abraham remained patient, trusting in God’s faithfulness. In due time, Isaac was born, fulfilling God’s covenant and solidifying Abraham’s legacy of patience and obedience.
Now the Lord was gracious to Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did for Sarah what he had promised. Sarah became pregnant and bore a son to Abraham in his old age, at the very time God had promised him. Abraham gave the name Isaac to the son Sarah bore him. – Genesis 21:1-3
The Importance of Patience and Waiting For God to Work
Resting in the Lord teaches us perseverance, endurance and humility. It strengthens our faith and cultivates a deeper reliance on God. When we exercise patience, we align our will with God’s divine plan. Jesus’ timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with our own desires. The Bible tells us that there are different types of seasons. Consider this a waiting season, where you allow God to mold and prepare you for His purpose.
Scripture assures us that those who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength Isaiah 40:31. It’s in the waiting season that our faith is refined, our character is shaped and our hearts are aligned with God’s will.
but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31
Practical Steps Towards Patience
Cultivating patience requires intentional effort and spiritual discipline. Here are a few practical steps to nurture patience in our lives:
- Prayer and Meditation: Spend time in prayer and reflection, seeking God’s guidance and surrendering your desires to Him.
- Study Scripture: Dive into God’s Word and explore passages that highlight the importance of patience. Allow Scripture to shape your perspective and mindset.
- Practice Gratitude: Develop an attitude of gratitude, focusing on the blessings in your life rather than dwelling on what you lack. Gratitude fosters contentment and patience.
- Community Support: Surround yourself with fellow believers who can encourage and uplift you during seasons of waiting. Share your struggles and victories, knowing that you’re not alone in your journey.
As we delve into the month of April join us through scriptures centered on patience. Let us embrace this opportunity to deepen our trust in God’s timing. May we learn to wait patiently, knowing that God is faithful to fulfill His promises in His perfect time.
Click on the link below and allow God to speak to you through His WORD.
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