Growing up, I learned an annoying little song about patience. The goal was to remind us to have patience and not hurry so much. It was one of those songs that got caught in your head, which I’m sure was the intent.
The other day, I was at my favorite coffee establishment, and they were moving at a snail’s pace. I was not there to take a leisurely break. It was a grab-and-go kind of day. As I stood there watching them, I wanted to jump the counter and make my drink. You may be laughing, but I am pretty sure that is because you relate to what I am saying!
Patience may be a virtue, but it is often an elusive one for many of us.
Psalm 37:34 reminds us we should not be impatient for the Lord to act. Hebrews 6:12 tells us that we should not lose our enthusiasm, and Proverbs 4:25 reminds us to intentionally set our gaze on the path God has laid out for us. These Scriptures, along with many others, tell me impatience has the ability to rob me of the fullness of my God-ordained destiny.
Patience is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. Fruit requires both care and time to grow. Over the years, we have tried growing fruit trees, and they take work! Growing the fruit of patience in our lives takes work and doesn’t happen overnight.
I love the story of David and Saul in 1 Samuel 24. David knew his destiny. The prophet of God had given him a word. However, not only had many years passed, but he was also running for his life. Saul, the current king, was out to kill David. David found himself with the perfect opportunity to kill Saul, take the throne and fulfill the prophetic word. However, David had matured in both patience and his walk with the Lord over the years. He had come to know that patience also involved understanding the heart of God and the timing of God.
To hear more of Ruth Hendrickson’s teaching on patience, click here to listen.
