| 1:21 min read |

I suppose most of us would likely give ourselves low marks on the patience scale. We like quick. We like fast. We like immediate.

The truth is, the greatest things in life take time to grow and develop. Compare a mushroom with an oak tree. The mushroom sprouts quickly and disappears quickly. The oak tree grows slowly but endures centuries. Our problem is, we want oak tree strength at mushroom speed!

To get oak tree strength you need oak tree patience! This is what the apostle James was talking about in James 1:2-4 (TLB) “Dear brothers, is your life full of difficulties and temptations? Then be happy, for when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it grow, and don’t try to squirm out of your problems. For when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you’ll be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete.”

The Greek word for “patience” can also be translated “perseverance.” It means “to remain, endure, hold out, and wait on.” (TDNT) It describes the commitment of someone to stay the course, keep on working and waiting until problems are solved, battles are won, and challenges are conquered.

Patience has a pay-off! James says that when you develop it “… you’ll be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete.” Sounds like the kind of people we want to be!

Pastor Dale

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