In the world, patience is increasingly hard to find. It can be a trial, even for Christians, to develop and practice patience. The daily responsibilities in personal, family, business, and even religious matters continuously consume our time and efforts. Naturally, humans want to control the outcomes of all our affairs. But it is this false belief – that we have the power to control situations and people – which can make us feel very impatient and anxious.

Here is where the talk meets the walk: for Christians, the key to overcoming impatience, the fear of unknowns and the desire to be in control is to apply God-given truths.

  1. God (not us) is the one who is in control. Isaiah 55:11, “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”
  2. God knows everything, He has no unknowns. Isaiah 46: 9,10, “Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure…”
  3. God’s plan is the ultimate manifestation of love. Romans 8:28 (RSV), “God (not humans) works out all things for good to those that love Him.”

When these truths are at the forefront of a Christian’s mind, applied in all things great and small, we can confidently wait on the Lord. This does not mean we should sit idly by and not plan our actions. It means that when we have prayed about an action and determined that it is in agreement with Biblical principles, then we may act. At the same time, we wait to see whether or not God will bless those choices. We wait confidently, patiently, knowing He is our Father and will direct the issue. 

The advantage gained by patiently waiting on God and on His plans is a perfect inner peace, a peace that nothing in this world can give. The peace of God which surpasses all (worldly) understanding (Philippians 4:6,7). A peace which shines as a light even when all outward conditions are the reverse of peaceful. A peace that can wholeheartedly pray, “Not my will, but Thy will be done.”

Additional Resources:
Download the free PDF: “How God Answers Prayer” 

Christian Questions Podcast 
Episode #1286: “Does Patience Really Matter?”
Uncovering a deep and life-changing facet of Christian patience
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes

For children, parents and Bible class teachers:
Animated video: What is patience?