The Value of WaitingSample

Patience

When it comes right down to it, suffering is an act of patience—and patience is an act of suffering. One of the fruits of the Spirit, patience, is vital for a well-lived life. This virtue, by nature, carries some element of discomfort.

It is hard for us to suffer, wait, and hope for redemption to come, even in the best circumstances. Faith is an exercise in delayed gratification and that hurts. It costs us something, especially as we see others make the ever-enticing choice of instant gratification. From our side of the fence, their results seem even better than the challenge and trust required in waiting.

We want to act instantly, especially when angry. We want our rewards now. We want all of life to make sense, be comfortable and have a greater sense of control. We try to sidestep the stillness of faith by taking matters into our own hands.

Hope comes at a price. Patience costs us the temptation right in front of us, but the Lord promises redemption. 

He promises His delayed-gratification rewards are more excellent, fuller, and truer than the instant-gratification superficiality we desire. 

There is a pain in patience, but there is also a prize. We will receive not just future rewards but a life of more noble character, wisdom and trust.

Today, choose to respect God’s timing.