Values of the Incredible Family
Patience
Scripture Reading: James 3:17-18
Key Verse: Galatians 5:22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness
Read some definitions of patience: bearing annoyance without complaint or loss of temper; willingness to suppress annoyance when confronted with delay; quiet, steady perseverance—even tempered care. Would you agree that patience should be a doorframe value in your home? The Bible certainly believes it to be a value that is worthy of daily attention and practice.
The Apostle Paul lists patience as a fruit of the spirit. That simply means that when we have the spirit, we will grow our patience with those around us, with the Spirit’s help. In Colossians 1:11 we read: “being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience…” This doorframe value can never be truly developed without God’s help. The good news is: He has the power and desire to help us!
Later in Colossians the scripture tells us to clothe ourselves with patience (Colossians 3:12). That tells me we must intentionally make it part of our daily values. We must determine to focus on this value when we start to get impatient with our family and/or friends. But God showed us His patience even when we should have received His wrath (Romans 9:22). Let’s be imitators of God today, showing patience to those who may not deserve it!
Father, by your glorious power I will live out your values. I will show patience to my family and co-workers today. In Jesus’ name, amen.