Patience is an important characteristic of the maturing Christian life. If we do not learn to be patient, we are not likely to learn anything else. As believers, we are able to rejoice even in our tribulations, because we know that tribulation brings about patience;
and patience, experience; and experience, hope (Romans 5:3-4).

We must never think that patience is complacency. Patience is endurance in action. It is not the Christian sitting in a rocking chair, waiting for God to do something. It is the soldier on the battlefield, keeping on when the going is tough. It is the runner on the race track, refusing to stop because he wants to win the race.

Too many Christians have a tendency to quit when circumstances become difficult. The saintly Dr. V. Raymond Edman, late president of Wheaton College near Chicago, used to remind students, “It is always too soon to quit.”

I have often thought of that statement when I find myself in the midst of trying circumstances. It is not talent or training that guarantees victory: it is perseverance. “By perseverance the snail reached the ark,” said Charles Spurgeon.

Verse for today: “You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised” (Hebrews 10:36, ntv).

Also read: 1 John 5:4; Romans 5:3-4; 8:35-39; Hebrews 12:1.

Action assignment: Learning to be patient is not easy, because it usually involves frustrations and disappointments. What causes you to want to give up? Consider that “nothing can separate you from the love of God,” and make that your motto as you anchor your hope in Him.