Frustration happens when we find wet clothes in the dryer that was not turned on earlier that day. Disappointment grips as vacation plans have to be changed. Sorrow is a feeling that often finds a place in our hearts when a best friend or parent passes away unexpectedly. Heartache and even anger are feelings that we encounter when someone has deliberately abused our trust. We encounter doubt when over time, we just don’t get the break in life we have worked so hard for. Anxiety and worry are felt as we wonder if our jobs are secure. Our feelings and the sources of those feelings can become obstacles towards personal progress. During such moments, recognizing the challenge and developing a sense of patience can provide clarity.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with experiencing these feelings. We all do. Some of these feelings will vanish as quickly as encountered; however, some won’t. A lack of patience can send us into a counterproductive mode, not allowing us the chance to apply ourselves toward decent decision making. Sometimes, we simply have to make hasty decisions. What about times though where a decision has to be made carefully. It might be a decision that not only will effect you but others as well. When experiencing emotional stress, the use of patience simply gives each of us an upper hand to slow down a RE-ACTION, gain some direction and take care of ourselves in the process. So how do we acquire such patience? First, recognize some critical times in life when patience was not chosen and ponder the outcome. Secondly, presently seek to learn appropriate changes with behavior as a result of using patience. A tree is known by the fruit it bears. Sometimes, so are we. The bearing of good fruit takes time. In Christian text from the Bible, Paul refers to patience as one of the fruits of the spirit. Perhaps to experience patience and any other fruit we must first recognize the importance of acquiring such things as well as the wisdom gained from the experience. This simple act of recognition is a virtuous quality.
By recognizing that a challenge exist, there is a further a reason to choose a path of acquiring patience. When we fail to recognize a lack of patience and the sources, the re-action of the moment and the sources of those feelings win. If that is the case, should we pursue learning about patience and work at acquiring it more and more? Yes. Should we also consider recognizing the sources of our feelings? You bet. By choosing to recognize what can be done to exhibit better behavior, we understand the source of our feelings and learn how to be patient enough to take control and create positive change.
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5: 22-23.
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