Following Jesus takes patience. What many of us would like is instant transformation; both personally (in our sanctification) and universally (with the return of Jesus). Sometimes even the 60 seconds we wait for a microwave meal seems to take forever. Waiting for the life-long process of our sanctification to be complete can be downright discouraging. We find ourselves telling God we want patience and we want it now!


As Peter said, dear friends, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9). The Lord is patient with us, so we can seek to be patient in ourselves, too. Because He is faithful, God will give us the patience we need. He has qualified us; we haven’t qualified ourselves, and He will see us through. Patience comes to us as a gift and as a blessing. Jesus obtained it for you, and now He freely gives it to you. That is a great reason to give thanks!