Patience: A Virtue to be Exhibited
“But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:4
The book of James tells us that faith without works is dead. One of the key works that faith should produce in a Christian is patience. Just as our faith is often tested, so is our patience. And like faith, patience is a virtue that should be exhibited to others. The virtue of patience is not just a personal quality to be admired; it’s a public one that can positively impact those around us.
Anyone who lacks patience believes in themselves to be a god who can make things happen instantly. Having patience toward others is considered impossible for some, while some practice it to the limit. However, the kind of patience that is acceptable is like that of God our father and his son, Jesus Christ. It is the kind of patience that made us, that once far away, but we can now approach His throne with boldness.
Joel 2:13 says, “And rend your hearts and not your garments.” Therefore, return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.”
Humankind has been proven to be the worst of God’s creations, yet God cherishes them, and His love for us had never wavered, even when we were once rebellious to Him. Expressing a growing determination when people do what we don’t like also means letting go of burdens and weights that can easily beset one of the heavenly races. Romans 9:29 says, “And just as Isaiah predicted: If the Lord of Hosts had not left us a seed, we would have become like Sodom, and we would have been made like Gomorrah.” In other words, despite all our atrocities and disobedience, God has kept us alive.
Therefore, remember, patience in interpersonal relationships is a kind of patience that is exhibited irrespective of the offenses committed. This is what the gospel requires, and believers should live by it. The role of the Holy Spirit in the place of patience cannot be shortchanged so as not to be patient beyond limits. Romans 2:4 says, “Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?”
Prayer
1. Dear God, thank you for your patience towards humankind and for showing us true patience.
2. Holy Spirit, help me to live patiently with everyone so that I might reap my reward greatly in heaven in Jesus’ name. Amen.
3. 2 Thessalonians 3:5; May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and the steadfastness of Christ. Amen.
