How Patience Pays Off

 “But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.”-- Romans 8:25 (KJV)

“Not so in haste, my heart!

Have faith in God and wait;

Although he linger long,

He never comes too late.

He never comes too late,

He knoweth what is best:

Vex not thyself in vain;

Until he cometh, rest.”—Bradford Torrey

Honestly, a traumatized person might not want to hear he needs to trust God, who has a plan. Such an attitude can seem to trivialize pain and suffering. Hours of waiting may have turned into days, years, or even decades. The breakthrough hasn’t come. Endless prayers haven’t been answered in the expected way. How does the sufferer feel?

A. Frustrated

B. Confused

C. Angry at God

D. Fatigued (Sick and tired of being sick and tired)

E. All of the above

An individual may think looking for improvement is naïve: “I’ve been in the pit so long, I don’t see any way out of it. When one problem is resolved, another one rises up. I’ve even had two or more major setbacks at a time. How can I realistically expect change?”

Progress often happens after hoping doesn’t even make sense anymore. We’ve changed our focus and moved on with our lives.

…but, the victory may still be out there.

Patience in Relationships (Jenny and Doug—not their real names)

This is a healthy friendship. They seem to follow the wise council listed in Ephesians 4:23:

• Meekness
• Unity
• Peace
• Longsuffering

Neither of these wonderful people dated much during high school. Both of them became more interested in friendships after they graduated.  There was no hurry. As a consequence, they were led to each other.

Jenny says she’s happy she didn’t rush into anything. Doug has helped her identify, and overcome, her weaknesses. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have tried to change herself. This young lady labels her past personality as introverted, closed-minded, and stubborn.

Her friend has prompted Jenny to become her best self. Doug has always believed in her potential. His attitude is positive and loving. With patience, he helps her move forward in baby steps. She’s a new person.

This is not a one-sided alliance. Jenny helps Doug with writing. Doug has introduced Jenny to a more active lifestyle. 

My Conclusion

 “Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded.”--2 Chronicles 15:7 (KJV)

How has patience paid off for you?