The First GiftSample

The Gift of Patience

Men love to focus on the solution to the problem. When our wives talk to us, we often find it difficult to have a conversation about how they’re feeling. Instead of processing those emotions with our spouse, we find ourselves jumping straight to the solutions. In graduate school, we were assigned to identify an evidence-based treatment modality that we identified with as future clinicians. I presented on solution-focused therapy because I love solving problems. I do not like to focus on the issues nor do I want to sit around and do nothing. Part of this is because I like things to be resolved quickly, but sometimes Jesus’ timing is different from ours.

Some things require us to wait like having a baby. It takes time to conceive a child and then we have to wait nine full months for our child to develop before giving birth. During pregnancy, if a baby is born prematurely, they’re at increased risk for many health complications.

Jesus does the same thing with us. He is patient with us coming to him, confessing him as our Lord and Savior, repenting for our sins, and choosing to live a life for Christ. God’s patience is not just for us; it’s for our family, especially our children. Just like we didn’t listen to God the first time, we should be prepared for that with our child. Even as they’re developing, we should be patient as each organ and part of the body forms. We should be patient even when the birthing plan is not on schedule or when things aren’t appearing to be what we’d hoped for. We cannot expedite the process because we can cause more harm than good by trying to solve everything quickly. He instructs us to be still for many things including knowing who he is, fighting our battles, and answering our prayers.

Jesus has given us the gift of patience. If we wait on Him, we will receive so much. He said that if we wait on him, He will renew our strength and we need that strength as fathers. Exuding patience to your child will show them that you love them so much that you will wait for them in love, without rushing, condemning or convicting.

Extend patience to your child as our Father has extended it to you. Patience shows that we’re committed and that our love has no time frame or benchmarks. Love your child for who they are in that exact moment each day.

Uncommen Questions: 

How did your father show patience to you growing up? 

What’s one area that you believe will be challenging for you to extend patience?

Scripture References:
Psalm 27:14
1 Corinthians 13:4
Isaiah 40:31