Focus on the Fruits! PATIENCE

“But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31).

As humans, we are not naturally inclined to demonstrate patience, even from infancy! Yet, patience is a viable fruit of the Spirit with significant mention throughout the Bible. So, how do we attain patience in our daily walk with the Lord? James 1:2-4 says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” When faced with situations that test us and we lean to God’s Spirit for strength, our faith and trust in Him increase through difficulties. God is the ultimate teacher of patience, as He is most patient with us.

Though we want things to happen quickly, according to our timing, we are called to trust and believe in God for HIS divine timing! “Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him” (Psalm 37:7). Focusing our eyes on the greatness of God vs. the size of our problem is how the Holy Spirit develops our patience, making us more Christlike. The Holy Spirit faithfully gives direction through His Word while our prayer connection keeps us closely engaged with Him. This is especially key when we are experiencing any discomfort in waiting. God’s Spirit makes us victorious!

Guiding Points:

Call to Action: Today, what challenges might be opportunities to increase in patience and trust in God’s control and His timeline? Read these scriptures and pray for the fruit of patience to grow.

“The Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness. For example, we don’t know what God wants us to pray for. But the Holy Spirit prays for us with groanings that cannot be expressed in words. And the Father who knows all hearts knows what the Spirit is saying, for the Spirit pleads for us believers in harmony with God’s own will. And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them” (Romans 8:25-28).

“He will give eternal life to those who keep on doing good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers” (Romans 2:7).

“Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble and keep on praying” (Romans 12:12).

Prayer: Father God, Your name is exalted today! We ask that You increase our patience as we depend on You rather than ourselves for what we need and want to see happen. We want to be more like Jesus! Give us direction and help us wait on Your divine timing. In Your name, we pray, Amen!

Final Thought: We can rest knowing that God’s timing is always better than our own.