August 14, 2026
Virtuous Patience
Patience has always been a challenge for me. I like things to happen faster than they typically do. I like fast service and fast tasks. It is a daily obligation to recognize all the blessings I receive and not focus on delays. People don’t pray for patience often enough. But they should. It is one of the fruits of the Spirit. It is not only healthy to have patience. It’s also appreciated by others.
We think we have faith. And yet. Unless we visualize God’s promises coming to fruition, unless we know His promises are true, unless we wait expectantly for Him to move on our behalf, we are lacking in faith. Therefore, patience in waiting is as vital as the faith that keeps us strong!
It is a sad truth that many people believe the miracles of God have ended. But Scripture tells us God is the same yesterday, today and forever! Miracles are still available. And if ever the world needed a touch of God’s love and mercy, it would be right now!
It’s enlightening to reread the Book of Acts. The Apostles did many miracles but those stories are often lost in the study of Jesus. And when Jesus left, He told them, “These things and more will you do in My name.” So, we should never be surprised at the miracles of God!
Reading Acts makes it obvious that following Jesus, talking about Jesus and living like Jesus can bring a lot of trouble. WWJD is a bit of an invitation to challenges and tests. And yet, those of us who love Him have little choice.
Dear Lord, I am brought to my knees every time I am reminded how inadequate my patience levels can be right when I need endurance the most. I am aware my levels are lethally low today and I find myself floundering in a pit of hopelessness. Help me look back on months (if not years) of consistent faith and optimistic belief You are about to move. I never thought I could lose all my faith. I am low and filled with doubt. This is not a ‘gimme gimme gimme’ request, Lord. If I could make it on my own, I would try. I feel You have turned away and I have no Plan B.
…persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. 2 Corinthians 4:9-11