II Thessalonians 3:5
“May the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ.”
The phrase, ” the steadfastness of Christ” is a curios one. Ellicott describes it as such in his commentary, ‘This “patience” includes both the thought of bearing up under their present persecutions and also the thought of “patient continuance in well doing,” as opposed to the fitful restlessness which had begun to prey upon the Thessalonian Church.’
Patience and waiting are godly virtues. All throughout the bible they are demonstrated. Abraham was promised a son. It did happen. However, the time was so long that he and Sarah thought it was up to them to fulfill the promise.
We are impulsive and impatient by nature. Usually when we want something, we attempt to get it with great energy and urgency. This isn’t always bad. It’s when the planning is poor and we force our way that it’s a problem.
Sometimes God wants us to wait. Patience seems to be what is taught. Much in life takes time. Trees take years to mature and bear fruit. Healing, health and growth happen in time.
A major component of faith is waiting. We are to trust Him to meet our needs and that He will work all things out for the good (Romans 8:28). The Lord seeks to work contentment in us. Even though things aren’t done, it’s ok, because we know He’ll work it out.
We rest in the end result. We allow Him to care for that. Thoughts and dreams run through our minds. We raise them up to Him in prayer. Our excitement grows, but we put it in His hands. Solomon says in Ecclesiastes 3:11, “He makes all things beautiful in His time.”
Lord, thank You for working in our lives. Thank You for the restful patience You build within us. Help us to have the steadfastness of Christ.