The Power of Patience
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Grandpa Os had a fruit stand where he sold peaches, apples, and melons. He was an expert in testing the ripeness of a watermelon. He would thump it with his thumb. If a customer was not convinced, he would offer to plug the melon. He would cut out a triangular plug from the watermelon and have the customer taste how ride it was. I never knew him to plug an unripe watermelon. The thumping told him when it was ripe and good for eating. Have you been thumped lately? God allows testing and difficult situations to develop our character and bring us closer to him. |
James tells us that we should be joyful and patient when we are being thumped by the problems of life. “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience, but let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (James 1:2-4 NKJV).
We need to understand the power of patience. Patience is a key to maturity and success in all areas of life. What is patience? Patience is not just a passive acceptance of your circumstances. It is a courageous perseverance in the midst of suffering and difficulties. When we have the right attitude and seek God’s wisdom our heart becomes ripe with the character of God. Immature people are always impatient. Mature people are patient and persistent. Faith and patience go together. “Be . . . followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Hebrews 6:12). Learning patience is crucial because it is the key to all the blessings of God.
Very few horses have ever won the coveted triple-crown in thoroughbred racing. A horse may have the right pedigree, talent, training, and a heart to win, but a jockey must exercise patience to win the race. If he gives his mount the lead too soon the horse will not have the needed reserve to finish first. When we learn to wait on God He can do great things for us. Abraham ran ahead of God, married the wrong woman and brought much sorrow to his family. Moses was impatient, murdered a man, and took care of sheep for 40 years to learn patience.
The only way God can develop patience and godly character in your life is through trials. When you encounter some thumping, trust and obey God. James teaches us how to become mature and strong in the Lord.
First – COUNT it joy when you are tested. Your attitude will determine your outlook, outcome, and actions. (James 1:2; Philippians 4:4)
Second – KNOW that trials have a purpose for God’s children. God will work the thumping of life for our good – not against us. (James 1:3; Romans 8:28)
Third – LET God work in your life and circumstances. Surrender your will to Him. (James 1:4; Proverbs 3:5-6)
Fourth – ASK God for wisdom. (James 1: 5-7) More than strength and deliverance we need wisdom to use the opportunities to learn and grow and not waste them.
Fifth – BELIEVE that God is good and loves you. He has great rewards for those who patiently endure and overcome. (James 1:12, 17) Don’t give up. You have need of patience (Hebrews 10:35-36)
“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believes in him shall not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).
by: Cliff Sanders