PERIODS OF PATIENCE
But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. James 1:4
People generally have a problem with times and seasons when they have to be patient. The reason for this is partly because they see periods of patience as periods of idleness; where they cannot do anything but have to wait on God or for what they are seeking. For some this can be quite frustrating and unnerving. However our opening scripture potrays the period of patience as one of work and perfection instead and as such gives purpose to it.
These are times when the Lord perfects us as well as the answers of our prayers. They are not times to complain but rather to collaborate with God in prayer and in preparation for what you are expecting.
In the Bible, Paul whiles incarcerated and unable to go out preaching saw that time as an opportunity to perfect the work he had done in the various churches though his letters and prayers (Col. 1:9). When we have such a perspective our times of patience would not be wasted in idleness but would be one of purpose and perfection as we wait on the Lord.
LIFE APPLICATION
Change how you look at periods of patience and utilize every second you have in prayer and preparation for what you are seeking.
PRAYER
Father, may you continue to perfect me even though my trials and tribulations.
The NIV has a better translation. "Patience" is translated as "perseverance". It makes it passage more understandable.
(James 1:2-4 NIV) Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, {3} because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. {4} Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Thanks for your contribution. I really apreciate it.