Patience. We all lack it. We all need it.
There is no good example of someone who doesn’t have patience and things working out well for them in a timely manner. We can see this in the Exodus. Because of the high lack in patience and the constant complaining, God showed the Israelites that they “of little faith” and needed to work on this “Fruit of the Spirit.” They were punished by not only 40 years of wandering, but they never got to see the promise of God fulfilled. That gift was left for their children and grandchildren. I don’t know about you, but after suffering in Egypt and the squelching desert, being told by the LORD, “sorry, you won’t get to eat the honey or drink the milk because of your poor attitude, but maybe your grandchildren will,” would surely open my eyes, ears, and heart to obedience and trust super fast!
Another lack of patience is seen in the Disciples. They always seemed to want instant solutions, gratification, and obedience. They wanted the priority to not include children, prostitutes, women in general, and the less desirables.
Matthew 19: 13-14 “Then some children were brought to Him so that He might lay His hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, “Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”…
Jesus spoke to the woman at the well and gave her the water of life. She would never go thirsty again. Her instant faith poured out of her as she spread the word through her town. She was saved and wanted to share the good news of Jesus Christ. The Disciples wanted to eat.
When they returned to see Jesus at the well, they had food on the brain. In John 4:33 they asked if someone brought Jesus something to eat. But again and again, Jesus rebuked them and tried to teach them that “I have food to eat that you know nothing about” v32. “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.” vs34.
Jesus took his time with a woman while others waited impatiently for worldly subsidence. The woman’s testimony saved people. Without taking the time with her, Jesus may have not reached the entire village near by.
Multiple times Jesus is questioned on when will the day of reckoning come. When will He return and bring Glory with him? When will all worldliness pass? They wanted knowledge.
I have never read the Disciple’s Literal New Testament before, but this translation really hits the nail on the head as an answer to the constant nagging.
2 Peter 3:8-10 Disciples’ Literal New Testament (DLNT)
8 But do not let this one thing be escaping your notice, beloved— that one day with the Lord is like a thousand years, and a thousand years is like one day. 9 The Lord is not being slow about the promise as some regard slowness, but He is being patient toward you, not wishing any to perish, but all to make-room for repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief— during which the heavens will pass-away with-a-roar, and the elements will be destroyed while burning, and the earth and the works in it will be found.
Patience. The Day of the LORD will be here before we know it. It will be a day like no other. Maranatha. Come LORD, quickly.
Limes. If you pick them too soon… yikes. Patience.
Galatians 5: 22
“The Fruit of the Spirit is… patience…”
I made a delicious drink last night. It is one of those super-secret drinks that has many health benefits including helping weight loss. Yumminess and weight loss, that’s AWESOME! However, I learned that when one lacks patience, sometimes your ingredients lead to some sourness in your mouth and belly.
I used a small lime instead of a medium one. I also used more lime juice than the recipe called for. This led to many faces made by myself and a bit of a head ache (however, my two-year old loved it, go figure). Tip: follow exact directions when using ingredients you’re not use to. Use ripe fruit, not baby fruit.
Now I will divulge my super-“not-so-secret” drink. I have followed Trim Healthy Mama for a couple of years. They have some great recipes in their book and many more that followers have concocted on their own. Just search for them on Pinterest and you will find all sorts of yummy recipes. I will give you my version of the “Good Girl Moonshine.”
Goo
d Girl Moonshine (the non-face-puckering version of mine):
2 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar (This is where you splurge: I recommend Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar)
1 Tbsp Ginger
1 Tbsp lime juice (watch your lime!)
4 medium sized strawberries
2 Truvia packets (or like sweetener)
Water and Ice to taste (when all is said and done, your entire drink should fit into a 1 quart-sized mason jar)
Yummy…
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