by Pastor Wendall Ward
A Look At Love
First we see hearts and valentines all over, but let’s look at the God kind of love. It is certainly different from the world’s version.
1 Corinthians 13:4-8 says Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
Love is expressed in many ways. The first quality of God’s love is patience. Daily challenges give us great opportunity to show this expression of love. And we have good news.
What do we already have?
As we grow in our relationship with God we will find patience is something we already have. As we follow the Holy Spirit, we are developing the fruit of patience. (Galatians 5:22) After all we have the mind of Christ (1 Corinthians 2:16). We also have Christ in us, the hope of glory. (Colossians 1:27)
It is important to be patient, drawing from the patience of Christ to strengthen faith and relationships. Patience is both a time and relationship word that reflects the process of becoming more mature in walking with Christ and expressing love in interactions with others. That is how they will know we are His disciples.
God is Patient With Us
Patience takes time. Be patient with yourself. It takes time to experience and appropriate what you (and others) are becoming “in Christ.” Let the truth of God’s patience with you wash over you like a morning shower that refreshes and braces you for a brand-new day!
Using the Patience We Have
Don’t pray for patience; learn how to express it because you already have it! “…We have the mind of Christ” (1 Corinthians 2:16). Your daily interactions with others will give ample opportunity for you to draw from the patience of the “Christ in you.” Every time we respond with patience, love is expressed. Our patience is strengthened to meet the inevitable challenges of a maturing faith and our relationships with others.
Remember, patience is key to strengthening faith and relationships. It takes time to grow in Christ and show love to others. Instead of praying for patience, use the patience you already have through Christ in your daily interactions.