Church of the Nazarene

The “fruit of the Spirit” includes patience (Galatians 5:22-23), but that doesn’t mean the Holy Spirit will force it into the believer’s life.  Instead, He acts as our ever-dependable teacher and the one who enables our growth.  Spiritual fruit matures over time as we obey the Lord and surrender to His will.

Patience involves waiting for God’s timing, whether in regard to things we desire or challenges caused by other people.  Either way, it’s an outgrowth of deepening faith.  The Holy Spirit urges believers to take note of the Lord’s handiwork on the journey through life.  Our confidence in Him is nurtured by answered prayer, the rich blessings that arise unexpectedly from difficult circumstances, and every trace of good that God brings from a bad situation.  As our trust in His goodness and sovereignty grows, we are willing to wait for God’s solutions and outcomes.

In fact, recognizing God’s sovereignty is key to developing patience.  A signifi-cant part of surrendering to His control is waiting upon Him to do what He will.

Patience doesn’t come naturally.  The Holy Spirit strengthens our resolve to endure without complaint.  After all, God is slow only from a human standpoint. From a divine, eternal perspective, He’s always working at the perfect speed.

As our confidence in God grows, so does our capacity to wait for His answers and accept His will.