How's your patience?

"I am counting on the LORD; yes, I am counting on Him. I have put my hope in His word."

                                                                                       Psalm 130:5.  NLT

When we have been seeking God for the way forward, we need to exercise patience. We know it's the right thing to involve God in our plans, He likes this but, that doesn't mean He will answer us straightaway. Sometimes He answers our prayers very quickly; at other times it can seem like an eternity. The latter times are when we need to exercise patience. 

If God has revealed to us His plan, then patience is essential. God waits for the right time; nothing is ever rushed with Him, it is always on time. For example, He may have told you that He wants you to go to university but, several things have to happen before this can take place. (1) you need to satisfy the board that you are capable of attending and achieving success. (2) There has to be a vacant space available on the course. (3) You may have to sit an entry exam so that your student skills are shown as satisfactory. This is just for starters. None of this will happen immediately, it all takes time and patience is important. Romans 8:25 tells us: 'But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently. We can try many things to make something happen but, God doesn't need our help, He is very capable of doing things Himself, and it is a fool who tries to make things happen. We are more at peace when we realise that God is in control and will deliver when the time is right.

There are situations where things can't wait and we need God to respond very quickly. We may find ourselves in a risky or threatening situation God's help is essential. Take for example Jehoshaphat's plight in 2 Chronicles 20:20. Mighty armies were coming to attack him and his territory and he didn't know what to do, but he knew God would know. 'O our God, won’t you stop them? We are powerless against this mighty army that is about to attack us. We do not know what to do, but we are looking to you for help.' And God did just that, from heaven He created an emergency plan that would stop these armies in their tracks. And it did.

Patience is not easy but it is achievable. Jehoshaphat's patience was stretched and his plea to God is interesting 'but we are looking to you for help.' Really he was saying 'Lord, we're counting on you.' And that is ok with God, He wants us counting on Him for help.

So whatever is happening in your life today, exercise patience and talk to God about it. He understands and will help you. That's a promise.

Copyright 2025 Grahame Howard. 

If you don't know Jesus or, have fallen away, why not say this prayer right now
Lord Jesus, I have sinned. I ask you to forgive me and be my Lord and Saviour. Please come into my heart, fill me with Your Spirit and give me a brand new start today. In Jesus' Name. Amen.
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