Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- March 30, 2011
“I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.” Psalm 40:1
Patient people wait on God’s best. God things happen to those who are patient—those who wait. Patience is a virtue, but it is also a vehicle in which the Lord delivers His blessings. Like a loyal wife waiting for the gift of her husband’s return from war, so those who love Jesus wait on Him to return. Patience waits on God to rain down His favor.
“Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain” (James 5:7).
However, as we wait we pray and we prepare. We pray for patience—knowing that Jesus Christ is completely trustworthy. We pray for boldness to declare God’s truth to those who have yet to fall in love with Jesus. Waiting is also the Lord’s time to prepare our character. Our character has to keep up with our success for us to remain successful.
“Tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character” (Romans 5:3b-4a).
Yes, it is hard to be patient when you really want something. But, why do you want what you want? Is your motive aligned with what the Almighty wants for you? Your heavenly Father knows what you need and when you are able to handle His blessing. Pride demands to have things now, but humility sees the worth in wisely waiting.
Your tension may be the normal desire to have a husband or a wife. Or, maybe you feel trapped financially or your job is a dead end road. You seem to be doing the right things, but you are not happy with your progress. Thus, while you wait, focus on your intimacy with Jesus, and let Him do a work of greater grace in your heart. Enjoy what you already have and you will appreciate whatever else you get. Like Job, wait on God to give back more than before.
“As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy” (James 5:11).
Patience is the fruit of the Spirit—it resides with God—but it is available for His children. So, seek the fullness of the Holy Spirit each day. Wait for and anticipate good gifts from your heavenly Father. Christ manages the clock of life, so rest and regroup during His timeouts. So, in the parenthesis of time enjoy living for the Lord and others. Patience waits.
“And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised” (Hebrews 6:15).
How can I enjoy God and others during this time of waiting? Who can I serve?
Related Readings: Psalm 27:14; 37:7; Micah 7:7; Romans 8:25; Jude 1:21
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How poinant that today’s message was about patience. I pray for this everyday and this devotional encouraged me as I go about my day and struggles with being a divorced mom of two precious children. God bless you for this site. You touch so many of us deeple.
Shalom; and greetings; . . . Wonderful Devotional as always; once more; Thank You for being so concerned in regards to the book delivery;last week; I was Truly humbled. Blesssing to You and Family; and the Ministry He’s Blessed you with. . . . With Jesus; . . .Ron
I’m starting a business from home and realizing that there are so many things that God is using during this time to help me deal with past issues. I didn’t expect this, but can see now how He’s using this to better me for service to Him. I wanted in the beginning for it to go faster, but as I pray for His will I am being changed so much that I pray more for His will more than before – as I don’t want to go to fast and miss what He’s trying to do for me. Once I started to see this, I didn’t want things to go to fast – because then it would be my will mucking it up and not getting accomplished what His plan is. Today’s devotional helped me to feel even more at peace with His pace.
This is exactly what I needed to read today. I’ve been praying for God to restore my business, and He has encouraged me along the way. However, at times I grow impatient because He is not working on my time frame. What a great reminder to trust Him, fellowship with Him, and serve others while I wait on Him!