Embracing the Unlimited Patience of God
As a beloved child of God, have you ever stopped to consider the depth of your Father’s patience towards you? In Galatians 5:22-23,25, we’re reminded that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Moreover, since we live by the Spirit, we’re called to keep in step with the Spirit.
A God of Second Chances
Paul’s words in 1 Timothy 1:16 are a powerful testament to God’s mercy and patience. As the worst of sinners, Paul was shown mercy, and Christ Jesus displayed his unlimited patience as an example for all who would believe on him and receive eternal life. This same patience is extended to you, dear child of God. Your Father welcomes you back to his house, even after the most outrageous violations of his covenant (Luke 15:20-24&32).
A Work in Progress
You are a work in progress, and God is not finished with you yet. He doesn’t give up on you, and he intends for you to mirror the likeness of Jesus. In the gospels, we see examples of Jesus’ patience with people in every circumstance of life. From the woman caught in adultery to his disciples, Jesus demonstrated remarkable restraint produced by patience.
The Patience of Jesus
Jesus’ patience is a beacon of hope in our lives. He understands our weaknesses, having gone through suffering and temptation himself. As our merciful and faithful High Priest before God, he can patiently help us (Hebrews 2:17-18). Be blessed with the unlimited patience that Jesus displayed, because he lives in you to show you his patience to you and through you.
The Fruit of Patience
Let God work his patience in you to bring about his purposes and plans. Be blessed with long-suffering, not just tolerance, and with grace and compassion with yourself and others. Be blessed with knowing that God is working patience in you, especially when others are trying you. Be blessed with his patient endurance and encouragement in long battles.
A Marathon, Not a Sprint
Patience is a marathon, not a sprint. Be blessed to keep the marathon of patience, even when your legs feel like lead and your lungs are screaming for relief. Be blessed with the fruit of patience that the Holy Spirit produces in you, your grateful response to his patience (Galatians 5:22).
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