In my 38 years of living on planet Earth, I have learned that patience is a key to living a peaceful life. Frustration, anger, animosity, gossip, evil communication, malice, and outright hatred are just a few of the countless sins which can stem from not being patient. In my 22+ years of knowing Christ as my Savior I have found that patience is the one grace that everyone wants others to exercise with them, but rarely are willing to reciprocate to others. If there is one person who should exemplify patience… it is a PASTOR!
What Is Patience?
The word “patience” is used in the King James Bible 34 times. There are two words translated patience. One means to be long spirited or long tempered and the other carries the idea of a cheerful endurance… literally “an abiding under”. Both words express the idea of being slow to wrath and that time is not a relevant issue. One who is hasty is not patient! Instant gratification is not compatible with patience.
The Beauty Of Patience…
Patience is a grace which matures Christian character and is a beauty to behold! As a lighted candle adorns an orate table for two in the corner of one’s favorite restaurant, so patience, when practiced, allows the love of God to shine that much brighter into someone’s life! Patience elevates one’s level of influence upon not only the one being interacted with, but also with onlookers and those who may hear about it.
Pastors MUST Exercise Patience…
(1 Timothy 6:11) “But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.” (KJV) Emphasis Added
(2 Timothy 3:10) “But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,” (KJV) Emphasis Added
The Scriptures make it abundantly clear that a pastor, God’s man, must exercise patience. While it may not be one of the graces which, as they say, “comes natural”, but it must be something which is constantly worked on. Paul warned young Timothy about the need to follow after patience (1 Timothy 6:11), he also reminded Timothy about his own testimony concerning this grace (2 Timothy 3:10).
The Aroma Of Patience…
The rose emanates a most majestic fragrance when its pedals are crushed. A Christian’s life is often challenged and tried by fire. The spirit can be defeated at times by the burdens borne. It is when we are at our lowest that we can be the sweetest by exercising patience under trial!
(James 1:2-4) “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” (KJV) Emphasis Added
Conclusion…
A pastor’s ministry if often under fire from the critics and gainsayers. His own life is muddled with problems outside of his duties as shepherd. The degree of a pastor’s patience is often the determining factor in longevity of ministry! No pastor can escape this reality. How would you rate yourself concerning this grace?
