Gifts From God Through Patience

Galatians 5:22 – The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. (KJV)

James 1:3-4 – 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)

We had the opportunity to take "the trip of a lifetime" to Britain, and with careful research and planning on my husband's part, he booked it. But then came the war with Iraq. As well, our airline was put into protective receivership. We were somewhat stressed as to whether or not it was wise to proceed with our plans.

With thanks, I gave it to God. Through patience, He gave me the gift of peace of mind.

Once there, we booked a one-day trip, which would take us to explore the ancient Roman ruins in Bath, munch on lunch in a thirteenth-century tavern in the lovely little village of Lacock, and finish with the rare privilege of a private hour to walk among the stones and savour a sunset at Stonehenge. The day was drizzly throughout — not a problem at Bath or Lacock — but, by the time we got to Stonehenge, it started to pour. Most of the group soon returned to the bus parked across the road and out of sight. Six of us, though partially soaked in spite of rain gear, stayed to marvel at the majesty and mystery that is Stonehenge.

With thanks, I gave it to God. Through patience, some fifteen minutes before our hour was up, He gave us the gift of the most magnificent sunlight streaming through Stonehenge, framed with a big, bold, beautiful rainbow, twinned by a softer, smaller one.

Upon returning home, the mail revealed a summons for me to report for jury duty on the following Monday: a duty which I wouldn't try to reject, but one which would probably interfere with my ability to co-facilitate a weekly group and other volunteer commitments. It was clear that I could do one or the other, but not both.

With thanks, I gave it to God. Through patience, He gave me the gift of a reprieve. Two days later the sheriff's office called to say my presence wasn't required, as the case was no longer before the courts.

Psalm 104:24 – O Lord, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. (KJV)

In each situation, I was willing to accept either outcome. When we "give it to God", letting Him make the choice, and following His lead, rather than asking to be granted one specific thing, we cannot be disappointed, for we can be assured that He has chosen the right route for us to follow.

Prayer: Your works and the riches You so abundantly provide for us extend far beyond what we could ever accomplish. We give thanks that we can give You our worries, our problems, and our concerns, and we are grateful for the ways in which You so graciously give back to us. In those times when we are anxious, may we be graced with patience, in the faith that we may be granted Your peace in the path You choose for us to follow. Through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray. Amen.

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