As a teacher, I admit I’m not always as patient as I should be.
A teacher’s day can be bombarded with many patient-robbing episodes. Six questioning hands raised before I’ve finished my first sentence-most have nothing to do with the lesson. A few appear stuck in the up position. Test scores reflect the majority of the class doesn’t comprehend a particular subject matter even though we’ve spent twelve weeks dissecting it. And the muddled chatter keeps me continuously mouthing “Shhhh.”
Paul’s simple instruction doesn’t make illustrating patience any easier. Be patient with everyone (I Thessalonians 5:14 NLT). Patience is a virtue, but it’s also an art.
Patience is learned through our relationship with a tolerant God. He has to be. Otherwise we’d all wind up in the hot place instead of heaven. He doesn’t want anyone to perish but all to repent (II Peter 3:9). Even after entering his family, God patiently endures with us as we grow into spiritual adults reflecting his attributes. Thankfully, he doesn’t hold us back when we fail or throw us out when we raise our hands too many times.
Patience is developed over time. With more miles behind me than in front, I’m still learning to paint patience in my action and attitude class. Time heals all wounds; it also teaches patience.
Patience is also vital in reaching life goals. God has plans for his children, but time is required for those plans to develop and this necessitates patience. I knew at a young age God wanted me to preach and teach, but endurance was necessary as I lived out the intervening years before coming of age and also as I endured the educational process.
What areas do you need more patience in? Ask God to intervene, but don’t be surprised if the methods he uses require patience.
Prayer: Thank You merciful Lord for Your patience with us through our blunders, missteps, foibles, and sins. Teach us to be as patient with others as You are with us.
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