PATIENCE

Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy (James 5:11, KJV).

ABSTRACT

This article explores the biblical virtue of patience, examining its role in spiritual growth, character development, and the Christian life. Drawing from Scripture and the writings of Ellen G. White, it discusses how patience is cultivated through trials, temperance, and faith, leading to ultimate reward and reflection of God’s love.

INCREDIBLE INSIGHTS ON PATIENCE!

Greetings, fellow Bible adventurers! As seasoned explorers of God’s Word, we embark on a quest to unearth the hidden treasures within the concept of patience. Like a trusty compass, the Bible guides us through trials and tribulations, revealing how patience, like a superhero’s power, strengthens our spiritual core. This study will delve into the depths of patience, exploring its meaning, its development, and its ultimate reward. Join me as we unearth these precious gems, applying them to our lives and the world around us. Patience depends on a vital connection with Christ. Unity in the community flows from this bond, as trials refine our faith and build endurance. The Bible further illustrates this with “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31, KJV) and “But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it” (Romans 8:25, KJV). Ellen G. White emphasizes, “Patience is a plant that will make rapid growth if carefully cultivated. By becoming thoroughly acquainted with ourselves, and then combining with the grace of God a firm determination on our part, we may be conquerors, and become perfect in all things, wanting in nothing” (Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists, p. 134, 1886). Sr. White further notes, “We must let patience have its perfect work, remembering that there are precious promises in the Scriptures for those who wait upon the Lord” (My Life Today, p. 98, 1952). But what wisdom does the Word offer regarding the grace of patience?

DIVINE DOCTOR’S PLAN!

What wisdom does the Word offer regarding the grace of patience? Ecclesiastes 7:8 declares, “Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit” (KJV). This verse, like a wise sage, reminds us that true success lies not in impulsive beginnings but in patient perseverance to the end. As Sr. White eloquently states, “Through conflict the spiritual life is strengthened. Trials well borne will develop steadfastness of character, and precious spiritual graces. The perfect fruit of faith, meekness, and love often matures just amid storm-clouds and darkness” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 61, 1900). This is not to say we should seek out trials, but rather, when they come, we should embrace them as opportunities for growth, recognizing that God is working to refine us, like a master craftsman honing a precious stone. “We are too easily discouraged. We should have more faith in God, more patience under trial. We should think more of the future life and the immortal inheritance. The trials of this life are the furnace in which the Christian character is purified and strengthened” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 331, 1880). Like the farmer patiently awaiting the harvest, we too must patiently wait for God’s perfect timing in our lives. We must allow the “early and latter rain” of the Holy Spirit to nurture the seeds of faith within us. The Bible further illustrates this with “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9, KJV) and “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass” (Psalms 37:7, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “The trials of life are God’s workmen, to remove the impurities and roughness from our character” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 10, 1896). Sr. White further notes, “Patience under trials will keep us from saying and doing those things which will injure our own souls and injure those with whom we associate” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 20, p. 269, 1993). This patience, this steadfastness, is a testament to our trust in God’s ultimate plan. How often do we become discouraged when faced with obstacles? How can we learn to view these challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth? We can learn to view challenges as opportunities for spiritual growth by remembering that God is in control, and He will not allow us to be tested beyond what we are able to bear. We can also focus on the promises in His Word, and the examples of those who have persevered through trials. But how do patience and impatience stand in stark contrast?

EPIC BATTLE UNFOLDS!

How do patience and impatience stand in stark contrast? Proverbs 14:29 provides a clear distinction: “He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: but he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly” (KJV). Patience, like a deep well, springs forth from understanding, while impatience, a raging fire, fuels foolishness. Impatience often leads to rash decisions, fueled by uncontrolled emotions, while patience allows for thoughtful consideration and wise action. It’s like the difference between a skilled surgeon carefully making an incision and a clumsy butcher hacking away. One brings healing, the other brings harm. We see this contrast played out in the lives of biblical figures. Abraham’s impatience led to the birth of Ishmael, while his later patience brought forth Isaac, the promised son. “Impatience is one of the most common and one of the most dangerous foes of the soul. It is the spirit of Satan transferred to the human heart. It leads one to look at the dark side of things, to magnify difficulties, to anticipate evil, and thus to close the soul to the light and joy and peace that come from God” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 297, 1885). The Bible further illustrates this with “Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools” (Ecclesiastes 7:9, KJV) and “A wrathful man stirreth up strife: but he that is slow to anger appeaseth strife” (Proverbs 15:18, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “And to temperance, patience. The need of becoming temperate is made manifest as we try to take this step. It is next to an impossibility for an intemperate person to be patient” (The Review and Herald, February 21, 1888). Sr. White further notes, “Patience pours the balm of peace and love into the experiences of the home life. Patience will seek for unity in the church, in the family, and in the community. This grace must be woven into our lives” (The Review and Herald, December 18, 1888). How do we see this contrast playing out in our own lives and in the church today? Are there areas where we need to cultivate more patience? We can cultivate more patience by daily surrendering our will to God and asking for His Holy Spirit to control our thoughts and actions. But what valuable lessons does the trial of our faith accomplish?

FIERY FAITH FORGE!

What valuable lessons does the trial of our faith accomplish? James 1:3 tells us that “the trying of your faith worketh patience” (KJV), and Romans 5:3 adds that “tribulation worketh patience” (KJV). Like a blacksmith forging a sword, trials temper our faith, making it stronger and more resilient. They are not meant to destroy us but to refine us, removing the impurities and strengthening our character. This reminds me of the story of Job, whose unwavering faith was tested through immense suffering. Yet, through it all, he remained faithful, demonstrating the power of patience in the face of adversity. His experience serves as a powerful reminder that God is with us even in the darkest valleys. “God does not afflict His children willingly. He does not delight in their distress. He permits trials and affliction to come upon them because He sees that they are necessary to their spiritual growth. He would have them develop a character like Christ’s; and this can be done only through trial” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 330, 1880). The Bible further illustrates this with “And patience, experience; and experience, hope” (Romans 5:4, KJV) and “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Romans 15:4, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “Through trial and persecution the glory—character—of God is revealed in His chosen ones. The church of God, hated and persecuted by the world, are educated and disciplined in the school of Christ. They walk in narrow paths on earth; they are purified in the furnace of affliction” (Acts of the Apostles, p. 576, 1911). Sr. White further notes, “Long-suffering bears something, yea, many things, without seeking to be avenged by word or act. Long-suffering is patience with offense, coupled together with long endurance” (My Life Today, p. 97, 1952). How can we encourage one another during times of trial, reminding each other of the refining power of faith? We can encourage one another by sharing our own experiences of God’s faithfulness during trials and by pointing to the promises in His Word. But what virtue naturally follows temperance?

TEMPERANCE TEAM-UP!

What virtue naturally follows temperance? 2 Peter 1:6 links temperance and patience, stating, “And to temperance patience; and to patience godliness” (KJV). Temperance, the control of our appetites and passions, is the foundation upon which patience is built. As Sr. White counsels, “Temperance in eating and drinking must be practiced before you can be a patient man” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 406, 1870). This isn’t just about physical temperance, but also emotional and mental temperance. Controlling our anger, our anxieties, and our desires is crucial for developing patience. It’s like a well-oiled machine; when all the parts work in harmony, the machine runs smoothly. Similarly, when temperance and patience work together, we can navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and grace. “The indulgence of appetite strengthens the animal passions, and enfeebles the moral powers. As the physical strength increases, the intellectual and moral powers decrease, and the soul becomes enslaved to the lower nature” (Counsels on Diet and Foods, p. 36, 1938). The Bible further illustrates this with “With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2, KJV) and “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith” (Galatians 5:22, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “True temperance teaches us to dispense entirely with everything hurtful and to use judiciously that which is healthful” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 562, 1890). Sr. White further notes, “The controlling power of appetite will prove the ruin of thousands, when, if they had conquered on this point, they would have had moral power to gain the victory over every other temptation of Satan” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 491, 1875). How can we cultivate greater temperance in our lives, so that patience can flourish? We can cultivate greater temperance by making conscious choices to control our appetites and passions, and by seeking God’s help to overcome our weaknesses. But what crucial test in character development is highlighted in the Word?

WORDS WIELD WISDOM!

What crucial test in character development is highlighted in the Word? James 3:2 asserts, “For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body” (KJV). Our words, like sharp arrows, can wound or heal. Patience allows us to control our tongue, to speak words of kindness and encouragement, even when we are provoked. It’s a mark of spiritual maturity to be able to hold our peace when we are tempted to speak harshly. “A hasty and passionate spirit is ever ready to speak words that are afterward repented of. The precious words of truth, the words that would be a blessing to the soul, are often unspoken, while words of passion and bitterness are spoken, and these leave a sting behind them” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 337, 1885). The Bible further illustrates this with “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath” (James 1:19, KJV) and “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city” (Proverbs 16:32, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “The tongue is an unruly member, holding the power of life and death. Words of love, blessing, and kindness can be spoken in cheerful, pleasant tones. Careless, unseemly words or harsh tones will wound and drive souls from Jesus instead of leading them to Him” (The Voice in Speech and Song, p. 58, 1988). Sr. White further notes, “If Christ dwells in us, we shall be patient, kind, and forbearing, cheerful amid frets and irritations. Day by day and year by year we shall conquer self, and grow into a noble heroism” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 487, 1905). How often do we let our words slip out in anger or frustration? How can we learn to use our words to build others up rather than tear them down? We can learn to build up others by practicing speaking kind and encouraging words, even when we are feeling angry or frustrated. We can also ask God to help us control our tongue. But what wise counsel is offered to those running the Christian race?

RACE FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS!

What wise counsel is offered to those running the Christian race? Hebrews 12:1-2 exhorts us to “lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith” (KJV). The Christian life is likened to a race, and patience is the fuel that keeps us going. As Sr. White explains, “Envy, malice, evil-thinking, evil-speaking, covetousness,—these are weights that the Christian must lay aside if he would run successfully the race for immortality” (Acts of the Apostles, p. 312, 1911). These “weights” hinder our progress, slowing us down and causing us to stumble. Patience enables us to persevere, to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the ultimate example of endurance. “We should not allow our courage to fail because the way is difficult. We should fix our eyes upon Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:2, 3) (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 339, 1885). The Bible further illustrates this with “That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Hebrews 6:12, KJV) and “Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer” (Romans 12:12, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “The Christian life is a battle and a march. In this warfare there is no release; the effort must be continuous and persevering” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 453, 1905). Sr. White further notes, “We are to run the race set before us, putting aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us. We are to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, following His example” (Signs of the Times, April 3, 1901). How can we identify the “weights” that are holding us back from running the Christian race with patience? But patience is not a passive resignation; it is an active endurance, a steadfast commitment to God’s will, even in the face of opposition.

ENDURANCE EARNED REWARDS!

Patience is not a passive resignation; it is an active endurance, a steadfast commitment to God’s will, even in the face of opposition. Like Job, whose patience was rewarded with restoration and blessing, we too can trust that God will ultimately vindicate those who remain faithful to Him. “The Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.” “He knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.” (Psalm 103:14, KJV). He understands our weaknesses and frailties, and He is compassionate toward those who strive to follow Him. “He will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” (1 Corinthians 10:13, KJV). This promise gives us hope and courage to endure, knowing that God is always present and working for our good. The Bible further illustrates this with “Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy” (James 5:11, KJV) and “By your endurance you will gain your lives” (Luke 21:19, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “The end of all things is at hand. What we have done must not be marred by what we shall do. We should guard vigilantly the remnant of our life” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 148, 1901). Sr. White further notes, “Those who endure the early and the latter rain of grace will be fitted to stand during the time of trouble” (Early Writings, p. 86, 1882). What examples of patient endurance inspire us? How can we encourage one another to persevere through difficult times? But what distinctive characteristic will mark the true Remnant Church?

REMNANT’S RESOLUTE MARK!

What distinctive characteristic will mark the true Remnant Church? Revelation 14:12 identifies the saints as those who “keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus” (KJV). This verse implies a patient obedience, a steadfast adherence to God’s law, even when it is unpopular or challenging. The Remnant Church, like a beacon of light in a darkening world, will shine brightly with the grace of patience, demonstrating their unwavering loyalty to Christ. “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” (Revelation 14:12, KJV). This verse highlights the connection between patience, obedience, and faith. It is through patience that we are able to keep God’s commandments and maintain our faith in Jesus. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9, KJV). God’s patience towards us should inspire us to be patient with others, showing them the same mercy and compassion that He has shown to us. The Bible further illustrates this with “Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus” (Romans 15:5, KJV) and “Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting” (1 Timothy 1:16, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “The remnant church will be brought into great trial and distress. Those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus will feel the ire of the dragon and his hosts” (Selected Messages, book 2, p. 385, 1958). Sr. White further notes, “In the time of trial before us God’s pledge of security will be placed upon those who have kept the word of His patience” (The Review and Herald, September 17, 1908). How can we reflect this characteristic of patience in our lives and in our church community? But for what magnificent event are God’s children exhorted to patiently wait?

GLORIOUS DAWN AWAITS!

For what magnificent event are God’s children exhorted to patiently wait? 2 Thessalonians 3:5 prays, “And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ” (KJV). James 5:7-8 urges, “Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh” (KJV). We eagerly anticipate the glorious return of our Lord, but we are called to wait patiently, trusting in His promises. Just as the farmer patiently awaits the harvest, we patiently await the culmination of God’s plan. “For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.” (Hebrews 10:37, KJV). This promise gives us hope and encourages us to remain faithful, even when the waiting seems long. “Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.” (Titus 2:13, KJV). This is the blessed hope that sustains us during our earthly pilgrimage. The Bible further illustrates this with “But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth” (Psalm 86:15, KJV) and “The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him” (Lamentations 3:25, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “We should be much in secret prayer. Christ is the vine, ye are the branches. And if we would grow and flourish, we must continually draw sap and nourishment from the Living Vine; for separated from the Vine we have no strength” (Early Writings, p. 73, 1882). Sr. White further notes, “The Lord Jesus is making experiments on human hearts through the exhibition of His mercy and grace. He is effecting transformations so amazing that Satan… stands viewing them as a fortress impregnable to his sophistries and delusions” (Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 18, 1923). How can we cultivate a spirit of eager anticipation while maintaining patient trust in God’s timing? But when the Lord appears in the clouds of heaven, what will His waiting people say?

SALVATION SONG SOARS!

When the Lord appears in the clouds of heaven, what will His waiting people say? Isaiah 25:9 proclaims, “And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation” (KJV). This verse captures the joy and triumph of those who have patiently waited for the Lord’s return. Their patient endurance will be rewarded with eternal salvation. “And he shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” (Revelation 21:4, KJV). This promise of a future free from pain and suffering is a powerful motivation for us to remain patient and faithful. The Bible further illustrates this with “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God” (Philippians 4:6, KJV) and “For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully” (1 Peter 2:19, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “Heaven is worth a lifelong, persevering, untiring effort. Won’t you have a heaven to go to?” (This Day With God, p. 360, 1980). Sr. White further notes, “The song of heaven will be a song of praise and thanksgiving. It will be music to the ears of God” (Manuscript Releases, vol. 9, p. 104, 1990). How does this promise of future glory impact the way we live today? But how do these concepts reflect God’s love?

LOVE’S LASTING LIGHT!

God’s love is the foundation upon which the entire concept of patience rests. His patience with us, His longsuffering mercy, is a testament to His unwavering love. As 2 Peter 3:9 states, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (KJV). This verse reveals God’s heart, His desire for all to be saved. His patience is not weakness, but rather a demonstration of His immense love and mercy. He gives us time to repent, time to grow, time to develop the graces of His Spirit. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16, KJV). This is the ultimate expression of God’s love, His willingness to sacrifice His Son for our salvation. This love motivates us to be patient with others, to extend to them the same grace and forgiveness that God has extended to us. It is through patience that we reflect God’s love to the world. His patience is a beacon of hope, a reminder that even when we stumble and fall, He is always ready to forgive and restore. The Bible further illustrates this with “Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up” (1 Corinthians 13:4, KJV) and “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end” (Jeremiah 29:11, KJV). Sr. White emphasizes, “True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. It is, on the contrary, an element calm and deep. It looks beyond mere externals, and is attracted by qualities alone. It is wise and discriminating, and its devotion is real and abiding” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 133, 1870). Sr. White further notes, “God’s promises are all on condition of humble obedience” (Evangelism, p. 254, 1946). This understanding of God’s patient love should fill us with gratitude and inspire us to cultivate this same quality in our own lives. As we conclude this exploration of patience, let us remember that it is not merely a virtue, but a superpower, a divine attribute that empowers us to overcome challenges, to persevere through trials, and to ultimately inherit eternal life. Like a superhero harnessing their powers for good, we can harness the power of patience to live lives that are pleasing to God and a blessing to others. May we be known for our patience, reflecting the character of Jesus in all that we do. Let us run the race with patience, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. And may we eagerly await the glorious appearing of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, with patient hope and unwavering faith.

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PATIENCE

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