PATIENCE

https://thehubforstartups.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/patience1.jpg?w=625&h=416

I have had to endure quite a lot these past two years: 2 major injuries, 3 very long-stuck in bed illnesses, a roller-coaster stressful time with a loved one & a death that was devastating to our whole extended family.  Enduring is one thing, but have I been patient?

I've surely endured, but have I been truly patient?  Have I had the ability or willingness to suppress restlessness or annoyance when confronted with a delay or disappointment?  Have I exhibited the capacity & willingness to endure?  Have I shown a quiet, steady perseverance in all these trials?
I guess you'll have to ask my family to get the true answer.

The apostolic writings tell me to: consider it a sheer gift, when tests & challenges come at me from all sides... AND that when under pressure, my faith-life is forced into the open & will show its true colors... AND that it's best not to try to get out of anything prematurely...BUT let it do its work... SO THAT I can become mature & well-developed, not deficient in any way...
Well then, sometimes, patience sure feels like a dirty word!  {see James 1:2-4}

Most times [definitely not all the time],  I am patient.  I am willing to endure when my focus & attitude are in the right place.  When my focus is on Adonai.  When I desire to have the character & love of Yeshua HaMoshiach [Jesus the Messiah] in my thoughts & actions.  Patience is a choice.

One thing I do know for sure, when I choose to be patient in difficult times; I always feel stronger & wiser for having gone through it, prayed fervently during it & deeply grateful that I'm on the other side of it!!!

I will always choose to surrender the unknown outcome of any situation to my known loving LORD.

But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, O Jacob,
And He who formed you, O Israel:
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by your name;
You are Mine.
2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,
Nor shall the flame scorch you.
3 For I am the Lord your God,
The Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
ISAIAH 43.1-3a NKJV