Daily Devotional

Merriam-Webster’s definition of patience is the capacity to endure delays, trouble, or suffering calmly and without complaint. It is the emotional ability to remain self-possessed and avoid becoming angry or upset when faced with provocation, adversity, or slow progress. However, as Christians, I believe our definition of patience needs to include our reliance on the Lord. Patience is one of the nine fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians 5:22. One does not possess these fruits apart from the Lord. A person must be saved and, upon salvation, receives the Holy Spirit, who manifests these qualities in our lives as we walk according to His will. Thus, without the Lord, we would not have true patience.

Now, I do not believe Christians are the only ones who can demonstrate patience. Merriam-Webster expounds on patience by giving examples such as:

These are fairly ordinary situations. However, in David’s case, he has been in the midst of a tumultuous time. It is during such times that, as Christians, we turn to the Lord and can demonstrate a kind of patience that the world does not know apart from Him.

But David does not expect us to do this without encouragement. Thus, he writes, “be strong and let your heart take courage.” Wow! How wonderful is that! I am empowered by these words. We can do this because of the great promises of God. We can have confidence because of the truths of Scripture and the many examples of God’s faithfulness to His promises. I can also reflect on my own life and see how God has time and again carried me through difficulties and blessed me abundantly.

However, David knows it is not easy and repeats the instruction: “wait for the LORD!” I think David may also repeat this phrase because he understands the human, sinful spirit that says, “I don’t need the Lord; I will do it on my own.” Then, without considering the Lord or acting within the fruit of the Spirit, we go and do something rash.

So, whatever is happening in your life—either now or in the future—that requires patience, I encourage you to consider these words of David and exercise spiritual patience empowered by the Holy Spirit: