Patience: A Disappearing Virtue
On Facebook the other day, someone pointed out that patience seems to be wearing thin more these days as people have been cooped up for months. Other than conferences being cancelled, life has not changed much for me but I know that not everyone is used to working from home, being with their family all day every day, etc.
Like I trust many of you are, I am praying that this stay-at-home order ends soon, but in the meantime, let’s let patience have her perfect work (James 1:4). While you are at home with your family, work to make positive memories that will bring good out of stress. When you are out and about, make sure that you are exhibiting the Spirit of Christ. It seems like everyone has strong opinions as to whether to wear a mask or not to wear a mask. Whatever you are feeling led to do, do it as unto the Lord but give grace to those who are not doing the same thing you are. Not everyone can wear a mask, many don’t see a need for it, but this does not mean that they do not care about you. Give them space … literally as well as figuratively. Although it is good to use wisdom, ultimately life and death are in God’s hands. Everyone in the world could wear a mask and, without God’s covering, you could still become ill. Begin to trust Him regardless of what everyone else does.
For those of you who have more time to be on social media these days, use it for God’s glory. If you want to bring a dissenting perspective, do it in grace and humility. Refrain from calling names or making those who oppose your view to feel stupid. They say that it’s easier for people to verbally attack people using a keyboard but that makes no sense to me. Writing should be a natural filter where you slow down and think about what you are saying and how you are saying it instead of refusing to rein yourself in.
If you have noticed yourself becoming more and more impatient, call or text a friend and ask for prayer. If you can find a quiet corner, take some time to read your Bible and pray. Read your favorite passages or go through the book of Philippians. Ask your family to forgive you for allowing yourself to become so frustrated and maybe they will pray with you, that God will give you the grace you need for the rest of this season.
The enemy would like to use this time to cause us to be discouraged and angry and divided but, with Christ, we are more than conquerors (Romans 8:37). If you are one of those blessed to be able to work during this time, thank God for that. If you are laid off, praise Him for continuing to meet your needs. If your family is getting on your nerves, rejoice that you have a family. The more you count your blessings, the less stressed you will be, and God will receive glory in the midst of the storm.
Leave a Reply
