I was sitting with a group of passengers on an airport shuttle heading to our connecting flight when the bus driver was told to hold in place. It looked like we would miss our flight, and this was more than one passenger could handle. He exploded at the driver, insisting he ignore his orders or risk the wrath of a lawsuit. Just then an airline employee came dashing up carrying a briefcase. Looking at the angry man, the airline employee triumphantly held up the briefcase. When he had caught his breath, he said, You left your briefcase. I heard you mention how important your meeting was, and I figured you would need this.
Sometimes I find myself impatient with God, especially about His return. I wonder, What can He be waiting on? The tragedies around us, the suffering of people we love, and even the stresses of daily life all seem bigger than the fixes on the horizon.
Then someone tells their story of having just met Jesus, or I discover God is still at work in the messes. It reminds me of what I learned that day on the shuttle. There are stories and details God knows that I dont. It reminds me to trust Him and to remember that the story isnt about me. Its about Gods plan to give time to others who dont yet know His Son (2 Peter 3:9).
The New Testament manuscripts, which were written in Greek, use two different words for patience. One word describes patience regarding circumstances; the other relates to patience with people. When the Greek text speaks of Gods patience, the word used is almost always the one that refers to people. Gods patience with us is not because He cant compel us to do what He wants, but because He loves us, respects our will, and has given each of us the ability to make our own choices. Adapted from What Does the Bible Say About Patience? Read it at discoveryseries.org/q0722