A clear mind and a calm heart make a big difference when facing challenges, and both are qualities that come from having patience.
Patience is the ability to endure difficult circumstances with grace and resilience. Aside from resolution to the challenge in front of us, patience is often the next most comforting thing.
In general, a patient person is strong in character and able to handle stress with endurance. They tend to make better decisions, regulate their emotions, and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. A patient person benefits from delaying instant gratification for something more valuable. They have more peace and healthier, more satisfying relationships.
This sounds great, but how do we become this person?
The secret to being a patient person is cultivating a close friendship with Jesus.
In the Bible, patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). It’s described as a quality of God and something that those who have intimacy with God will also possess. Patience is not a choice or a mindset; it is a result of intimacy with God.
We don’t become healthy simply by deciding to be healthy; we achieve health through consistent actions over time. We drink water, we move our bodies, we sleep and manage stress. Health is the result of actions. Similarly, patience is a result of actions. But which ones?
Habits that Christians have used throughout history to grow closer to Jesus include:
- Regularly reading and studying the Bible
- Memorizing passages of scripture
- Confessing sins to God and other people
- Setting aside time to be quiet and aware of God’s presence
- Giving intentionally
- Gathering with other Christians regularly
- Fasting to create space for prayer and encourage delayed gratification
Note: Fasting doesn’t only involve food; you can also fast from social media, streaming services, or any other distractions that keep you from pursuing the Lord.
Patience is a fruit evident in someone’s life when they trust God’s promises and see themselves as part of Jesus’ family and kingdom. You’ll notice it in those who understand their status as completely forgiven and their purpose as bringing God glory through loving Him and loving others. Patience develops as one prunes away old habits and cultivates new ones with the Holy Spirit—one patient action at a time.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” – Galatians 5:22-23 ESV
Kylee Slebodnik is a global worker with WorldVenture, a Health and Wellness Coach (NBCHWC), and a wife and mom. With a passion for storytelling, Kylee invites readers to self-reflect as she explores the human experience and seeks to glorify God.