Six weeks ago, I had back surgery for the third time. Screws and rods were installed which means I will never make it through an airport metal detector again.
As expected, Pastor Kit and the rest of our incredible church staff did such a great job, no one even knew I was gone, which in retrospect, is kind of irritating. But, as one of our members told me, the sign of a good leader is when an organization runs well even when the leader isn’t present. That means, I am the greatest leader in the history of leaders.
Prior to my surgery, one of my ongoing prayers was for patience. My prayer would be something like, “God give me patience – NOW.”
Unfortunately, God heard my prayer and has given me the opportunity to develop patience.
Recovering from this sort of surgery has meant sitting, walking, sitting, walking, sitting, walking, lifting nothing, and having an overprotective wife who constantly monitors everything I do to make sure I follow the doctor’s orders.
Last Friday, the surgeon explained this would be my routine for the next three months. That was the moment I realized God had given me the chance to develop what I had prayed for. I should have thought that part through.
Patience is an essential part of living a life in response to Jesus’ love and sacrifice. And, if I am not a patient person, then my capacity to love is anemic and stunted.
In describing love, the very first thing Paul says is, “Love is patient.” (1 Corinthians 13:4)
If you, like me, need to work on patience, know by doing so, you will become a much better version of yourself, because lacking patience is indicative of wanting control. That’s God’s job, not ours. And remember, God is not asking something of us that God is not already doing.
This is what Paul meant by saying, “But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life.” (1 Timothy 1:16)
Patience matters.
Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, help me become the patient person you created me to be. Help me trust in your plan for my life. Thank you for being patient with me. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
So, be patient and watch what you pray for. You just might get it.
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins
Daily Devotionals by Dr. Tom Robbins 