Real Patience
Complaining, arguing, grumbling – we’ve all done it. Waiting is no one’s favorite pastime. Whether you’re standing in a grocery line, getting stuck in traffic, or anticipating a text back, many instances require stillness… and this takes patience.
Did You Know?
In a survey conducted by the Fifth Third Bank, nearly 80% of respondents rated themselves as being patient, but in reality:
● 71% of Americans frequently exceed the speed limit to get to their destination faster.
● 96% of Americans will knowingly consume extremely hot food or drink that burns their mouth; 63% do so frequently.
● The majority of Americans will hang up the phone after being on hold for one minute or less.
Everyone wants to be considered patient, but do we demonstrate it? The popular cliche, “easier said than done,” applies when discussing showing mercy amid trials. Author and Disability Rights Advocate, Helen Keller, once said, “We could never learn to be brave and patient if there were only joy in the world.” Additionally, she explains, “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” Unable to see, hear, or speak, Keller learned long-suffering through circumstances out of her control.
At Echoing Hills, we believe true forbearance is developed through learning the scriptures and following the teachings of Jesus Christ. Author Daniel McCoy writes, “Patience in the Bible is the ability to endure difficult people and situations without giving in to anger or giving up hope. Because God continues to show us patience when we are doing disappointing things, we can show others patience when they disappoint us” (Renew.org, para. 1).
Those who show restraint wield a seemingly invisible power. McCoy describes, “The Old
Testament was written primarily in Hebrew. The Hebrew word ‘erekh ‘appayim’ is often
translated as patience, but it’s two words meaning long and nostrils.” What in the world does a long nose have to do with having patience? Well, when people are angry, they often breathe quickly and heavily. By contrast, when they are patient, people breathe more deeply and remain calm” (para. 5). Fascinating, right?
God’s mercy leads us to repentance so we can show mercy towards others. Romans 2:3-4 illustrates, “So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” Let’s extend grace to others because God gives grace to us.
From the beginning, the Founder of Echoing Hills, Cordell Brown, had to wait for God’s plan to come to fruition. His perseverance led to the development of Camp Echoing Hills, which helps individuals with disabilities experience the love of Jesus Christ.
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ninety-six-percent-of-americans-are-so-impatient-they-knowingly-consume-hot-food-or-beverages-that-burn-their-mouths-finds-fifth-third-bank-survey-300026261.html
https://parade.com/living/helen-keller-quotes
https://renew.org/what-is-patience-in-the-bible/
https://ehvi.org/god-doesnt-make-any-junk/
