Tip #39E: Be Patient!
The next fruit is patience. This one is a pretty tough fruit to bear because much of our society is moving at such a fast pace. If you've read any of my other posts, you may have heard me say that many people want things to happen immediately. We have minute rice, fast food, microwave dinners, overnight shipping, and the list goes on and on. Don't get me wrong, some of these quick ideas/inventions are great because waiting sucks! However, I've learned a thing or two about waiting and being patient. Why is waiting and being patient so important? Here's why:
To grow and gain strength: This is pretty literal. No one was born as an adult. They were born into this world as a little baby crying and screaming but little-by-little, day-by-day, each person has grown bigger physically. You should also grow mentally, spiritually, and in wisdom & character. There are some things that life teaches you over the course of time and not all at once. Growing and gaining strength is a very important process that might take a moment or two.
To get a good view of a situation: When you are rushed in making decisions or put into a position where a quick answer is needed, you may not make the best decision without careful thought and consideration. Taking time to make sound decisions shows that you have considered all the facts you need.
To appreciate what you're waiting for: By now, you should have heard the saying "the best things are worth waiting for" and I definitely believe that. When you work hard for something and wait patiently for it, your appreciation for that thing is at a completely different level than if you get it right away. Easy and quick doesn't really give you the sense of accomplishment you need.
To truly understand your desires: Fads change, styles change, seasons change, but most importantly, people change. Something you may want today may not be something you want tomorrow. Giving yourself time may help you understand what your true desires are and not just something you're acting on at that moment.
Those are just a few reasons why I think waiting is important. I'm sure you can think of more. Check out this story I found on the internet:
A little girl visited a farm one day and asked to buy a large watermelon.
"That big one you got on your hand costs $3 dollars said the farmer."
"I’ve got only 30 cents" replied the girl.
"30 cents will buy you a small watermelon" replied the farmer."What about that one" asked the farmer pointing to a small watermelon in the field.
"Okay, I’ll take it" smiled the little girl. "Here’s your 30 cents but leave it on the vine. I’ll be back for it in a month."
Pretty smart little girl. She knew her patience would be rewarded. By waiting one month, she could have a big, ripe watermelon for the price of a little green one.
http://www.citehr.com/150028-very-short-story-patience.html#ixzz2wpw7pJcW
Life is tough sometimes and waiting seems to only make it worse but remember what is said in Galatians 6:9 “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up”. Hang in there, keep up the good work, and be patient!
Written 3/23/2014 by John Weaver