|
"The discretion of a man
deferreth his anger;
and
it is his glory
to pass over a transgression."
Proverbs 19:11
Self Discipline
~~~**~~~
There are two words that we
use interchangeably that the Scriptures use in
specific ways. The first is perseverance:
the ability God gives to deal with difficult
circumstances or situations. The second word is
patience: the ability God gives
to deal with difficult people. So, if you are in
a difficult situation, pray for perseverance.
And when you are faced with a difficult person,
pray for patience.
We often hear the term, "Give
him/her the benefit of the doubt." It is the
wise person who can patiently overlook an
offense, instead of assuming every act of
offense is a deliberate act meant to cause harm.
This is a patient person. Instead of trying to
judge actions, allow time for the demonstration
of good intentions.
Parents would do well to take
this Proverb to heart. So often our children do
foolish things. In those moments we are tempted
to rush in to discipline only to realize later
that the offense was not that serious. Children
deserve patience as much as anyone.
Remember, God is
long-suffering with us, His children. He chose
to overlook our sin until the day it was placed
on the shoulders of our Lord Jesus. God's
discipline is always carefully and thoughtfully
applied. He is patient with us and treats us
with forgiving love.
May we learn to never be
discouraged because good things develop so
slowly, and never fail to do that good which
lies next to our hand. May we be diligent as we
enter into the sublime patience of the Lord. And
may we always be charitable in view of it. If
God can afford to wait . . . why can't we? After
all, we have Him to fall back on!
May God bless you as you let
patience have her perfect work, and bring forth her celestial
fruits.
|
