Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – May 8, 2014
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 soon. 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 for a husband or for 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 intimacy with Jesus, let Him do a work of greater grace in your heart. Enjoy what you already have and you will appreciate what 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—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. In this parenthesis of time you can enjoy living for the Lord and others. Patience waits.
“And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised” (Hebrews 6:15).
Prayer: How can I enjoy God and others during this time of waiting? Whom can I serve?
Related Readings: Psalm 27:14; 37:7; Micah 7:7; Romans 8:25; Jude 1:21
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© 2014 by Boyd Bailey. All rights reserved.
