When trouble comes, we often get impatient. We want to resolve the problem and do it quickly. As we all learn, every trouble cannot be resolved immediately. We need to be patient to understand the problem. Patience is required with others who may be part of the problem.
Don't misunderstand patience. It is not an excuse to ignore trouble. Patience never pretends that nothing is wrong. Understand the true nature of patience. It comes only with love. Patience and love are constant companions. "Love is patient and kind" (1 Corinthians 13:4, NLT). Being impatient is sure evidence of being unloving.
By nature, none of us are patient. There is only one place to find real patience. It is found through a relationship with the Holy Spirit. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit. "But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this fruit in us, . . . patience" (Galatians 5:22, NLT). Yield your life to the Spirit of God. He can produce patience in you.
It's not only important to be patient with others, but also with yourself. God's love is patient and kind. God is patient with us. He enables us to be patient. When trouble comes your way, turn to God in prayer. Ask God to give you love and patience. "Be patient in trouble, and always be prayerful" (Romans 12:12, NLT).
