October 4, 2026

Patience is a Virtue

And one I work on daily.  I was raised by a type A father.  Everything in my childhood was rushed.  Going to a picnic.  Or on a ride.  Or shopping.  I never understood the rush.  I do know it caused my mother huge anxiety on every errand.  Sadly, like a perfect little memory machine, I adopted every sigh  and groan of the impatient, and deal with those same problems to this day.   

I cannot logically understand this behavior.  What does it cost me to wait an extra minute or two at a red light?  To endure a long line.  To listen to someone’s extra-long and detailed story.  Nothing.  In fact, delays gift us with a chance to smile, say hello to the person next to us, and even keep the mood light enough everyone enjoys the respite. 

Patience has been my elusive fruit of the spirit.  While I covet all of those qualities, patience is the one that would allow others to see Jesus’ righteousness working within me.  We all respond well to spirit-filled people.  Imagine any drama infused situation.  When everyone there is reactive, fearful and panicked, chaos can take over.  But when calm and patience prevail, there is no room for turmoil. Patience is where we find forgiveness, second chances, and unconditional love. 

Proverbs 25:15 says, “Patience can persuade a prince, and soft speech can break bones.”  Once we understand the power of patience and acknowledge how ineffective impatience is, we can begin to change our attitude.  If it doesn’t work, if it makes people wary of being around it, if it affects people’s opinions, it needs to be overcome. 

Father God, thank You for the revelation that I cannot justify my lack of patience.  I am grateful for the opportunity to change, to grow, and to follow more closely in the steps of Jesus.  Help me, Lord, to become more surrendered to obedience.  Help me respond to life with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  Loving life means loving people.  Loving people means obedience to God’s plan. 

We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love.  2 Corinthians 6:6