the greenest grass around

PATIENCE–

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” EPH 4:2

When was the last time you witnessed someone being impatient? Most likely not too long ago. When was the last time you were impatient? No judgment from me. I was impatient this morning and ran a red light going to the gym…

We do not see much patience in our world, not even in our churches. I know it is one of my biggest struggles. It is also something I NEVER pray for because I do not want God to provide me with opportunities to practice patience. But patience is a critical characteristic to live a Christ-filled life. 

According to Webster’s Dictionary, patience also translates into endurance, constancy, steadfastness, perseverance, longsuffering, and slowness in avenging wrongs. I don’t know about you, but none sound fun. This is one reason I think patience might be the most challenging “fruit of the Spirit” to truly possess. (For me, at least.)

We live in such a fast-paced, instant-gratification, and in-demand culture. I included we only have to get in the car and drive down the road to see people who are not patient. (yikes) Try going to a drive-through and waiting more than three minutes. You will definitely find impatience there, too. Impatience is not only waiting for physical things but also answered prayers, a new job, a healthy checkup, a wayward child, and so much more. When we are impatient with God’s timing, we say we know better than him. We are not trusting him with his plan or allowing him to be Lord of our lives. 

That sounds harsh, I know. But honestly, I tell you, I am right there with you. The patience struggle is real and alive in my life. 

So why are we as a society so impatient?

1. Control 
2. Stress
3. Anger
4. Arrogance 
5. Entitlement 

When we allow these to creep into our lives, our patience goes out the window. These are warning signs that we need to check ourselves and ask God to help us in these areas. Sometimes, they are suddenly there, but other times, the Devil gets a foothold in our lives, and little by little, these qualities turn into ugly monsters. 

Patience is also waiting without complaint, trusting in God’s timing, and allowing him to lead our lives as we obey one day at a time. (Boy, is that hard.) We want things now, and sometimes God has us wait. We don’t understand. We are confused and frustrated. 

But friends, this is the trap the Devil lays for us. He wants us to be impatient and not wait on God. He wants us to be discontent and make rash decisions to try and manipulate our lives. He wants us to disobey God.

So, how can we work on our patience? Have you ever heard of the Serenity prayer? It is an excellent place to start if you are lost and looking for tolerance and peace. 

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference, living one day at a time, enjoying one moment at a time, taking this world as it is and not as I would have it; trusting that You will make all things right if I surrender to Your will. 

Impatience people say, “I have my plan, and I want it to happen now.” Patient people say, “I trust God, his plan, and his promises.” The Bible tells us that a patient spirit is better than a proud spirit (Ecclesiastes 7:8). 

1. Be patient with God’s plan.
2. Be patient in trails.
3. Be patient with God’s people

Think about the patience God has with us. Lord knows I do not deserve the patience God has with me. Look for opportunities to be patient and wait on the Lord today. Little by little, prayer by prayer, you and I can practice this vital fruit in our lives. 

KINDNESS and GOODNESS–

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience (Colossians 3:12)

These two are closely linked, and we will discuss them together. Kindness is defined as being friendly, generous, and considerate. In comparison, goodness is being morally good or virtuous. As you can see, they go hand in hand. 

Sadly, we don’t see much kindness and goodness today. The world sees these two as a facade we put on. Not something that is truly a characteristic. When was the last time someone showed you kindness or goodness? True kindness or goodness? The kind of characteristics of God. When was the last time you were kind or good to others? 

Kindness and goodness are being generous without wanting in return. God’s kindness and goodness are unrelenting. 

Pastor Andy Stanly says that kindness and goodness are loaning someone your strengths and not reminding them of their weaknesses. This is what God does for us. These things come naturally to God but not to us. 

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

Therefore, as we have an opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:10

Kindness and goodness are two qualities that are critical for us to possess. When we do not show these, we give the outside world a negative view of Christianity. Unfortunately, we, as Christians, are held to a high standard regarding our actions and characteristics. 

Throughout the Bible, we see God’s goodness toward us. His love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness are just a few examples. Jesus modeled kindness and goodness throughout his life here on Earth. We live in a world that does not understand kindness and goodness. As Christians, we have to choose to be kind and good. It is not an accident. We must work on these, pray for them, and strive to be like Jesus. 

Be reflective. How are you doing with these three? Our world has had enough of “fake” Christians. I pray that you reflect on these, strive to be like Jesus this week, and intentionally practice patience, kindness, and goodness.