21 Days of Prayer & FastingSample

Patience

We’ve all heard the saying, “Patience is a virtue,” but it’s more than just a cliché—it’s a truth that’s often harder to live out than we’d like. God calls us to be patient in many ways, and patience is something He has modeled for us beautifully. In 2 Peter 3:9, we see that God is patient with us, not wanting anyone to perish, but for everyone to come to repentance. Just look at the patience in nature—Sequoia trees grow from tiny seeds but take hundreds of years to reach their full height. The growth process takes time, and so does our spiritual growth. God has designed us to grow in patience, just like the trees He created.

Another area of patience we must embrace is waiting on God’s timing. Throughout the Bible, we see men and women waiting on God—Noah waited 120 years to build the ark, Abraham and Sarah waited 25 years for Isaac, and Moses, Caleb, and Joshua waited 40 years to enter the Promised Land. God’s timing can feel frustrating, but remember, Isaiah 40:31 promises that those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. Patience in waiting brings a reward—strength and endurance for the journey.

Finally, patience with others is a challenge we all face. People often test our patience, whether it’s waiting in line, dealing with children, or handling difficult situations. Yet, Colossians 3:12 reminds us to clothe ourselves with patience, along with compassion and kindness. God shows us infinite patience, and He calls us to reflect that same patience toward others.

Reflection Questions:

• Have you ever struggled with impatience with God’s timing?
• Can you recall a time when someone showed you patience in a way that impacted you?
• Is there someone in your life now whom you’ve been impatient with, and how can you show them patience?

Prayer:

Lord, thank You for the endless patience You have shown me. I pray for supernatural patience in my life today—for patience with You, with myself, and with others. Help me to trust in Your perfect timing, even when it’s hard. Remind me that Your ways are higher, and Your plan is always for my good. I choose to wait on You today, knowing that You will strengthen me as I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.