Saturday, November 15, 2008

Patience

Ever since Keagan was born Gavin has had to begin learning the meaning of patience. Just yesterday I found myself telling him that he was just going to have to be patient. He has recently started to ask the meaning of words that he doesn't understand so here he was asking me....."Mommy, what's patience?" or else he was whining...saying...."not patience....I don't like patience!!" So, trying to find the right words to explain, I simply told him that patience is waiting without complaining. It was my knee jerk response and I found myself wondering the actual definition of patience.

websters definition: bearing pains or trials calmly or without complaint.

Well, it struck me....when in my life have I ever waited without complaining. We all go through tough times, persevere, endure, struggle, and come out the other side. Sometimes, regardless of our attitude or behavior through these trials we can't change the circumstances. As I listen to Gavin whine while forced to wait for what he wants, I imagine how I must sound like to God sometimes. I try my best to give Gavin what he needs at the time that he needs it, so how much more should I trust God to give me what I need at the right time.

"Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience."
Colossians 3:12 NLT

As a friend recently stated, it is thankful month, and I certainly have so much to be thankful for. So I want to choose to walk not only in thankfulness, but also with patience.