Love is patient
May the Lord lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ. (2 Thessalonians 3:5 NLT)
John Calvin, an important figure of the Protestant Reformation, wisely said, “There is no place for faith if we expect God to fulfill immediately what He promises.” God absolutely does miracles, and His power manifests visibly and even immediately the world over in many situations. Yet most of His work is done through the quiet steadfastness of faithful disciples, living life by His guidance and believing in His promises, yet ultimately knowing that it is not their spiritual awareness, knowledge, or power, but Christ who brings the results in His time.
Jesus Himself suffered trials of patience. His was not a sheltered life, but one filled with adversity and hardship, even rejection. Yet His love never failed, and He did not grow weary in doing good. He had the promise that it would be worth it all, and so do we.
We strive to let our light shine in this darkened world, manifesting peace and patience when all around us is stress and confusion. So, on those days when I feel like shouting to the sky, “How much longer, Lord?!” I will look to His example and to the many others who followed it. And I will remember that it’s not my own worked-up patience anyway. The Bible states that love is patient, and God is love. So it’s all through Him, and by His grace I can hold on a little longer, manifesting His love, grace, and patience to those around me. [1]
Patience is a grace as difficult as it is necessary, and as hard to come by as it is precious when it is gained. - Charles Spurgeon
[1] Anchor Patience, But for How Long?!
