A Lesson In Patience

The LORD is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for his help.

“You kids have no idea,” I stated as my daughter showed me another sweatshirt she wanted me to buy for her while browsing at a local boutique. “When I was your age, we went shopping at Kmart for clothes twice a year—early spring for the summer and about a month before school. Then my mom would put everything on layaway and we would have to wait several weeks until it was paid off and we could pick up the items.”

My kids chuckled as I smiled. They’ve heard my story many times before, but it bears repeating.

“But Mom, that was so long ago!” my daughter responded. “Times have changed.”

“They certainly have,” I said. “But some things are still worth waiting for. Why don’t you add that to your birthday list if you really want it.”

Jasmine sighed and rolled her eyes for dramatic effect. “Fine, I can wait.” Now it was my turn to chuckle as I leaned in for a hug before we left the shop.

We’ve all heard that patience is a virtue, but no one likes to be told to wait. In a fast-paced world, we’ve gotten used to getting things quickly—the faster the better. But there is still a benefit in learning to wait for something we really desire: a refinement and building of our character.

And when we find ourselves in a season of waiting, we can rest assured that we’re in good company. Just scan the Bible and you’ll see. Abraham waited for decades before he had a son. Paul spent years in prison. And even Jesus waited until he was thirty to begin his ministry.

It is no different for us. We will sometimes have to wait a long time for things we want. Scripture reminds us that God is faithful, and we are blessed when we wait for him. I am thankful that he remains close to us, even as we wait.

Kendra

Today’s Act of Gratitude

What is something you are waiting on? Spend some time asking God to meet you as you wait and thank him in advance for his faithfulness to you.