patience

Humility, Anxiety, God’s Power and Care

Often, it is under the greatest affliction that we see Him most clearly. In addition to caring about every concern we might have, God has all the perfect answers and will cause all things to be used for His glory in due time.

1Peter 5:6-7 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Therefore means accordingly, or in conjunction with what was written beforehand. We need to ask ourselves, ‘What has the Apostle Peter been saying in the first five verses of this letter?’ Go back, read it, and refresh your memory. Then continue to the instructions beginning in verse 6.

humble yourselves.

“Be willing to take a low place--a place such as becomes you. Do not arrogate to yourselves what does not belong to you; do not evince pride and haughtiness in your manner; do not exalt yourselves above others”, Barnes.

I had to look up what the word ‘arrogate’ meant. The definition I found says it means to demand as being one’s due or property; to assert one’s right to something. Remembering that our claim to being God’s child and to having a future in Heaven is only because of what Jesus did, will help keep our heart humble. We do not deserve to be saved; we are not owed blessings. Any success we may achieve is because of God’s doing. Our willingness to remain humble before the leaders God has set in place honors God. If you take away Jesus, we are doomed. We are all on the same road having the same purpose – either the glory of Heaven because we’ve been called by Him, or the sting of Hell because we have denied Him. If I accept His call – it’s to His glory; if I deny His call – it’s to my condemnation. These truths are what keeps us humble because they point to God’s grace.

1Peter 3:15 but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness [humility] and reverence;

1Peter 5:5 You younger men, likewise, be subject to your elders; and all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, for GOD IS OPPOSED TO THE PROUD, BUT GIVES GRACE TO THE HUMBLE.

Do we have the right view of ourselves? Our opinions are not as significant as we might sometimes like to think when we consider Christ who died for our sins. We are precious in God’s sight only because of Jesus. Consider who you are without Christ. We need to recognize our need of Christ and realize it is only through Him that we are counted as God’s children. We are saved by faith alone, through grace alone, in Christ alone. Nothing of ourselves can save us. When we live in this truth, we will view ourselves low and lift God high. Obedience to His word glorifies His name.

Are there specific circumstances where you struggle with having a humble heart?

Are you able to relate to any of the following statements –

You don’t like what someone says; you don’t like what someone does; you resent the rules of authority because you feel they are unfair; you believe your way is best; you don’t understand someone else’s plan; you think some rules are foolish or not necessary so you choose to ignore them; you feel you might have to give up something important to you. What do these statements have in common?

Proverbs 15:33 The fear of the LORD is the instruction for wisdom, and before honor comes humility.

Proverbs 18:12 Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, but humility goes before honor.

Micah 6:8 He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Under the mighty hand of God refers to His power over all. If we revisit the beginning of Peter’s letter in Chapter One, we will remember he is writing to those who have been scattered because of their faith and are distressed by severe trials. Through these trials, God is refining them.

1Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you; but to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing, so that also at the revelation of His glory you may rejoice with exultation.

Consider, when we are at our lowest point, God is highest, when we have exhausted our own efforts, then we more readily submit to His plan to deliver us. When there is nothing left in ourselves, when we are spent and needy, we more easily rely upon God’s intervention and grace to see us through. Often, it is under the greatest affliction that we see Him most clearly. However, the goal is to learn and choose to rely upon God quickly in all circumstances, not just when we have no more resources and are suffering.

Deuteronomy 3:24 'O Lord GOD, You have begun to show Your servant Your greatness and Your strong hand; for what god is there in heaven or on earth who can do such works and mighty acts as Yours?

“The more we see of God's glory in his works, the more we desire to see. And the more we are affected with what we have seen of God, the better we are prepared for farther discoveries”, John Wesley’s Notes. When you consider the strength and power of God, a submissive heart will bow before Him in humility and be happy in doing so. Do you easily submit to God’s direction, or do you fight against it?

“When we have to do with Satan and his temptations, resistance may be of good use to us: "resist the devil, and he will flee from you:" but when we have to do with God and his chastisements, it is in vain to oppose. His hand is too mighty for us; there is no way but to submit, and to humble ourselves under it, by acknowledging our weakness, and resigning our will and desires to his wisdom and goodness”. Bp. Sanderson.

Being under the mighty hand of God is a blessing! When you are discouraged, it helps to look back upon God’s faithfulness in your life. He will never leave nor forsake you if you are His child. However, as a loving Father, He will allow you to undergo what is necessary to grow your faith, trust, and obedience in His plan.

That He may exalt you at the proper time

Luke 14:11 "For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."

In due time, or in season, God will cause all things to work for His glory and His children’s good. Note, this is not in our timing but in God’s. When we are in the midst of trials, we are called to be patient and wait on God. When we see the proud gaining triumph and momentum, it is difficult to focus ahead on the future of God’s deliverance. We always need to be humbled before Him, to trust in His plans and timing. How can we help one another to have patience through trials?

The proper time may be in our near future here on earth, but definitely will be our future in Heaven. Think of Hebrews Chapter Eleven which lists the ‘heroes of faith’ who acted according to God’s word regardless of the outcome. Peter was reminding these Believers to stay the course, to keep their sight on Jesus, to acknowledging His power and trust in His plan. There is always hope at the end of the tunnel when you genuinely rely upon God. One day, we will be in glory with Him.

Psalm 89:16-17 In Your name they rejoice all the day, and by Your righteousness they are exalted. For You are the glory of their strength, and by Your favor our horn is exalted. (The word horn refers to their power and honor; it can also be a reference to an actual horn which was worn around the neck and lifted high in triumph in response to God’s favor. Treasury of David). In other words, any triumph and all goodness is because of God and for His glory. Praise Him for His works and faithfulness.

Moving on to 1Peter 5:7, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Anxiety, merimna, means cares or distractions. Think of the many distractions which enter your mind. Do we allow the cares of this world to pull our focus away from God? God cares for each of His children’s concerns. Whatever troubles you, or in any affliction, you can cast, or literally throw to God your deepest concerns; He’s got this! The first thing that came to my mind was the act of casting a line in a body of water to fish but there is a significant difference in the meaning. When we cast a line in fishing, it is done over and over again hoping to catch something. When we cast our cares upon Jesus, He immediately hears us and gives us the strength to walk through a difficult situation in a way which glorifies His name.

The verb casting literally means to ‘throw upon’. When you throw something away, you get rid of it. For myself, I must really consider whether I have truly given my concerns to Christ or just voiced my concerns, continuing to hold them close enough to pick them up again.

Think of the idiom, ‘having a shoulder to cry on or lean on’. It means having someone who is willing to listen to your problems and give you sympathy, emotional support, and encouragement. In addition to caring about every concern we might have, God has all the perfect answers and will cause all things to be used for His glory in due time. This includes concerns you have for yourself, your family, your friends, your leaders, your workplace, your finances, your health, and all else you can think of.

Psalm 37:5 Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it.

Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.

What does it mean to you when you read the words, ‘He cares for you’? Is your confidence placed in God? If so, you will not worry about tomorrow. There is a great advantage for those who humble themselves before God, who trust in His goodness and His ultimate plan. Consider. What does focusing on your cares, worries, or anxieties accomplish? Instead, are you able to rely completely on God’s providence?

Matthew 6:30-33 "But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! "Do not worry then, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear for clothing?' "For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

There are incredible blessings for God’s children who seek to follow His direction with a heart and mind of humility while recognizing the omnipotence and omniscience of their Heavenly Father, trusting in His perfect plan.

“Father, mother, neighbour, friend, those whom you have loved, and those to whom you have done good, may neglect you, but God never will. You may become poor, and they may pass by you; you may lose your office, and flatterers may no longer throng your path; your beauty may fade, and your admirers may leave you; you may grow old, and be infirm, and appear to be useless in the world, and no one may seem to care for you; but it is not thus with the God whom you serve. When he loves, he always loves; if he regarded you with favour when you were rich, he will not forget you when you are poor; he who watched over you with a parent's care in the bloom of youth, will not cast you off when you are "old and grey-headed," Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Do you allow anxious thoughts to distract you? What can you do to avoid unnecessary worry?

“Casting all your care upon him; The Apostle means no doubt that anxious and disquieting solicitude, which distracts the mind, perplexes all our thoughts, breaks and confounds all our measures, and so, not only does more harm than good, but betrays a want of consideration and religion. Such a perplexity indeed must needs be very blamable; because it plainly argues that the providence of God over all his creatures, and his tender concern for the faithful in particular, make none, or much too feeble, impression upon our souls”. British Family Bible, Dean Stanhope.

In other words, if we truly believe that God cares for us and loves us and has a perfect plan for us, then, we will not be distracted or disturbed by difficulties of any kind. We will be able to cast our cares upon Him with confidence, leave them at His throne, and have peace.

1Peter 4:19 Therefore, those also who suffer according to the will of God shall entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing what is right.

Casting your worries on God does not mean you have no thought or compassion for difficult situations. We are to care for one another, come alongside one another, and share in their grief and joy. We should care enough to bring our constant prayer to God for problems and praise. We cannot ignore the problems we must address. We will feel sadness and loss. It is the overwhelming and consuming thoughts that cause rash decisions and distraction from God that is warned against. We are to do all we can to improve a situation, then we trust in God’s plan to unfold.

“The meaning is, that we are to commit our whole cause to him. If we suffer heavy trials; if we lose our friends, health, or property; if we have arduous and responsible duties to perform; if we feel that we have no strength, and are in danger of being crushed by what is laid upon us, we may go and cast all upon the Lord; that is, we may look to him for grace and strength, and feel assured that he will enable us to sustain all that is laid upon us. The relief in the case will be as real, and as full of consolation, as if he took the burden and bore it himself. He will enable us to bear with ease what we supposed we could never have done”, Albert Barnes’ NT Commentary.

Family Bible Notes says, “A sure and effectual relief from oppressive cares is a cheerful submission to the will of God, choosing to have him do as seemeth him good because he does all things well”. What is your response?
God cares for you – He has an interest in you, you matter to Him, and His direction is always best. Do you have confidence in His care? Why or why not? Do you believe God cares about every one of your concerns?

Ps 40:17 Since I am afflicted and needy, let the Lord be mindful of me. You are my help and my deliverer; do not delay, O my God.

Psalm 34:15 The eyes of the LORD are toward the righteous and His ears are open to their cry.

Luke 12:32 "Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom.

One reference says the word for ‘careth’ [KJV] implies “providential loving guardianship”. (Annotated Bible Notes)

God is our Heavenly Father; He has adopted us into His kingdom. Is there anything good He would not do for you?

“In the mean while, whatever uncertainties and dangers may attend you, endeavour to live as easy as possible; casting all your anxious care, and all those burdens that might otherwise occasion it, upon him; leaving it to his all-wise and all-gracious providence to determine every event of your lives; for he careth for you, in a manner the most effectual; and his tender care will accomplish infinitely more than your utmost anxiety can possibly effect”, Doddridge.

Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD gives grace and glory; no good thing does He withhold from those who walk uprightly.

Luke 21:18 "Yet not a hair of your head will perish.

Once you have done all you are required to do and have taken responsibility for any action and thought that is yours to own, then it is out of your hands, and you can leave your trust in God’s mighty power and plan. His wisdom and goodness are perfect. Therefore, you can rest in Him.

Humility in the Face of False Accusations.

Our example is to keep on committing ourselves and circumstances to God.

Jesus surrendered His cause to God.

1Peter 2:23 and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting [Himself] to Him who judges righteously;

Hebrews 12:3 For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.

“To avoid evil tempers, and the uneasiness and danger of avenging ourselves, it is a great advantage in all such cases to be able to refer our cause to God, and to be assured that the Judge of all the earth will do right”, Adam Clarke’s Commentary.

Considering the obvious application of not returning harsh words for those received, I would think we all have something to work on! Even if we do not verbalize our remarks, the thoughts we have which are odious towards others make us guilty.

Jesus was accused, although He was innocent, by those in authority in the face of many present. Think of the public humiliation and shame thrown at Him, yet He did not return insults or even answer harshly. He did not seek revenge but instead prayed for their forgiveness. He committed all things to God knowing that God would exact justice.

It is impossible for man to attain a position of perfect holiness. So even in that rare instance of wrong accusation, reproach for something is probably deserved. Our fight must be to remain as holy as possible, following the example set before us so that any accusation brought against us has no merit. The concern we should concentrate on is to seek to prove our genuine faith in humility before our gracious and forgiving God.

How should you respond when you meet with false accusations, harsh words, and unfair treatment?

Keeping some truths before us will help in our response –

We are worthy only because of Christ – being reminded of this helps to pull down the inflated picture we have of ourselves,

Our value and confidence rest in His claim on us – not because of any claim we might have,

Our hope is in God’s righteousness and perfect judgment – He alone sees all things exactly as they are and He alone is worthy to bless or condemn,

We are to be an example of His holiness in all our behavior – regardless of the circumstance or even perceived atrocities against us. We need to remember love is unconditional; We are called to forgive without limitations.

It is entirely God’s right to use His children as He wills for His glory. Our humble submission to His will proves our genuine love for Him. When we are wronged, responding rightly gives glory to God. This is not an excuse for individuals to mistreat others, but it is an opportunity for God’s children to grow in holiness.

Psalm 37:5-8 Commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He will do it. And He will bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your judgment as the noonday. Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret, [it leads] only to evildoing. For evildoers will be cut off, but those who wait for the LORD, they will inherit the land.

Jesus entrusted Himself to God, “who although He commands His people to manifest a Christian spirit towards all, will nevertheless condemn and punish those who oppress or injure them”, Family Bible Notes.

Read Matthew 25:40-46.

Judgement is God’s call alone – He is the only One who is completely righteous and sees all things as they truly are. When I consider what my submissiveness should look like, my mind goes to a familiar snapshot of what it should not look like. Picture someone who must have the ‘last word’. In the following verse, read how Scripture teaches against this.

Titus 2:9-10 [Urge] bondslaves to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, not pilfering, but showing all good faith that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect.

The phrase ‘not argumentative’ means not answering back, not disputing, not contradicting, not speaking against. And look at the purpose of this instruction – so that the doctrine of our Savior in all things might be adorned.

Think! What type of behavior attracts others towards the beauty of God’s truths?

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Commentary notes, “Leave your case in His hands, not desiring to make Him executioner of your revenge, but rather praying for enemies. God’s righteous judgment gives tranquility and consolation to the oppressed”.

Ephesians 6:7-8 With good will render service, as to the Lord, and not to men, knowing that whatever good thing each one does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether slave or free.

Colossians 3:23-24 Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men; knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.

Notice the words, ‘but kept entrusting Himself’. Our example is to keep on committing ourselves and circumstances to God. This is to be a continuous practice, not a ‘one and done’ deal.

I love what is shared in Spurgeon’s Devotional Commentary, “What an example! May the Holy Spirit enable us to imitate it. He was the paragon of patience, the mirror of endurance. He was absolutely perfect, and yet was infinitely a sufferer, but he never complained, or resented wrong. Master of Patience, teach thy disciples”.

Perhaps you pray these same words I pray –

“O Lord, keep my thoughts holy, my actions helpful, and my words encouraging, and when necessary, keep my ears deaf and my mouth silent”. I want to think of those things that are right, good, and true. I want to always be mindful of serving others rather than self in my actions and conversation. I do not need to hear or know every detail of circumstances and I absolutely do not need to share what I think at every instance.

1Peter 2:24 and He Himself bore our sins in His body on the cross, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness; for by His wounds you were healed.

Jesus offered Himself up to carry the burden of our sin so that we who were dead in our transgressions would be made righteous through Him. Only by His suffering are we healed.

Isaiah 53:4-6 Surely our griefs He Himself bore, and our sorrows He carried; yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the chastening for our well-being [fell] upon Him, and by His scourging we are healed. All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; but the LORD has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.

We can either focus on the difficult circumstances we may face, or we can remember the incredible gift we have received from Jesus. Because of Him, we are no longer under the power and control of sin. Because of Him we are purposed to righteousness. Remember who Peter was writing to – those who were being treated unfairly and persecuted. The truth they now followed was different than what they had seen practiced. The high priests in the Jewish culture had regularly offered sacrifices for their own sins and the sins of the people. These sacrifices needed to be repeated again and again. The Gentiles had not even been considered as God’s people.

1Peter 2:10 for you once were NOT A PEOPLE, but now you are THE PEOPLE OF GOD; you had NOT RECEIVED MERCY, but now you have RECEIVED MERCY.

In contrast, Jesus offered Himself as the One perfect sacrifice for all mankind, the only complete fulfillment of the debt owed. Even in difficulties, these converts were reminded to follow Jesus’ example and patiently endure just as He did for them. The same is true for us today.

Is your focus on the problems which permeate our world or on the greater purpose of salvation through the Gospel?

Look up Romans 6:1-23.

Colossians 1:21-22 And although you were formerly alienated and hostile in mind, [engaged] in evil deeds, yet He has now reconciled you in His fleshly body through death, in order to present you before Him holy and blameless and beyond reproach--

John 5:24 "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.

1Peter 2:25 For you were continually straying like sheep, but now you have returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.

We were once straying like sheep; we are now under the care of the Shepherd. To go astray means to roam from safety or truth, to be deceived, to err, to be seduced or delusional. We were weak and under the guise of the deception of sin. In this position we had no hope but to stray from Truth. Following the tradition of laws and the idols of men offers no hope for the future. This message was one that needed to be heard then and now. The Apostle Peter offered a reminder and encouragement with his words of belonging to the Shepherd and Guardian of souls.

Remember who we are without Jesus – straying sheep. We walk away from safety and Truth. We are easily deceived and seduced by the world.

Ezekiel 34:6 "My flock wandered through all the mountains and on every high hill, and My flock was scattered over all the surface of the earth; and there was no one to search or seek [for them.]"

Because of Christ, we have been rescued and returned to His care. The reference of Christ as the Guardian of your soul, places His children directly under His care and charge. This is Whom you can place your complete hope and trust.

“It follows that the welfare of the soul may be committed to him with confidence. It is the object of his special guardianship, and he will not be unfaithful to the trust reposed in him. There is nothing more safe than the human soul is when it is committed in faith to the keeping of the Son of God”, Albert Barnes’ NT Notes.

John 10:11 "I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.

Read God’s promise to the nation of Israel – Ezekiel 34:11-15

This is the Gospel of God’s grace.

We are saved from –

Danger to Protection,

Death to Life,

Wandering to Purpose, and

Despair to Hope.

2Timothy 1:12 For this reason I also suffer these things, but I am not ashamed; for I know whom I have believed and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him until that day.

To say I am convinced in the above verse means ‘I am able, by the evidence and authority of God before me, to depend on with certainty and confidence’ that Jesus is my Example, my Defender, and my Protector.

How do we respond to 1 Peter 2:21-25?

With a heart of gratitude, commitment, and faithfulness
Seeking to live righteously causing no offense towards others, patiently and quietly enduring unfair treatment
Looking to our eternal future
Placing complete and constant trust in the One who knows all things, has endured all things, and will one day cause all things and persons to bow at the feet of His throne.

Philippians2:9 Therefore also God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, of those who are in heaven, and on earth, and under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Revelation 5:13 And every created thing which is in heaven and on the earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all things in them, I heard saying, "To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, [be] blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever."

“But now ye are, by divine grace, recovered and turned again to him who bears the important and tender character of the great Shepherd and Bishop of your souls, who has graciously received you under his pastoral care, and will maintain that inspection over you which shall be your continued security from returning to those fatal wanderings; and the sense of this may cheer and comfort you under any oppression or injuries to which you may be exposed”, Philip Doddridge.

Philippians 2:5-8 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, [and] being made in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.

Because of God’s love, because of His grace and mercy, we are saved, we are cared for, we are protected, and we are kept.

All For Him

We do not need to seek persecution for our faith, but if and when it presents itself, we are to respond properly. This is a repetition of the precepts we have been studying for several weeks.

1Peter 2:20 For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer [for it] you patiently endure it, this [finds] favor with God.

Peter continues to expand on the necessary behaviors for a believer. Beginning in verse 1 of this chapter, the apostle started with a contrast of actions which should be laid aside and those which should be desired. He reminded the church of their relationship with Jesus and the example they had to follow. He encouraged their focus to be on their future security in Christ. They were God’s chosen people, called by grace because of His mercy. Therefore, since their citizenship was in heaven, they were to act in a way which was worthy of that call. Their lives were to be a witness of God’s mercy and grace. Their submission to authority was required; their humility was to be representative of Christ’s example. Why? Because in following Jesus, who was perfect and yet demanded nothing, a believer brings glory to God. Out of a heart of gratitude for eternal salvation, we can choose to live according to the knowledge and understanding given in the Word – even if we suffer unjustly on this earth.

In verse 20, we have a further explanation of enduring for Christ’s sake. There is a stark contrast in the reasons noted for suffering. First, there is the suffering we bring upon ourselves for wrong choices, then there is receiving harsh treatment when it is entirely undeserved. You can imagine the latter is more difficult than the former.

Consider how challenging it is to be quiet and remain humble when you are accused falsely. This has probably happened to everyone at one time or another. Often, our first reaction is to make an argument for ourselves, to justify our behavior and to explain our position. Think of the accusations thrown at Jesus. He absolutely deserved no evil word or thought against Him – He was and is our perfect God. Yet, what was His response? A heart of humility which still considered the salvation even of those who had crucified Him. He asked His Father’s forgiveness for their sake. Jesus was entirely innocent, 100% perfect, yet was willing to suffer unjust and cruel punishment out of obedience to His Father.

Matthew 26:67 Then they spat in His face and beat Him with their fists; and others slapped Him,

Mark 14:65 And some began to spit at Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him with their fists, and to say to Him, "Prophesy!" And the officers received Him with slaps [in the face.]

Christ did not argue the Gospel, He presented it to all who would hear. Our charge is not to defend Christ nor the church nor even ourselves, but to give an answer for what we believe in order to make disciples. God does not need us to prove His righteousness; He has called us to be holy as an example of His holiness. In John 14:15 Jesus says, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments”. Our representation of who Christ is and all He has said and done, should give glory to Him.

Be willing to ask yourself this question: Does my representation of Jesus give Him honor?

Back up to 1 Peter 2:15, “For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men”. At times, this involves suffering. Our natural temptation is to justify ourselves. We readily explain why we are right, and we challenge those who treat us unfairly. In our country, we loudly proclaim our rights, we expect our freedoms, in fact, we demand to be treated fairly according to our own definition of what is fair. This is the opposite of patiently enduring under harsh treatment. According to one commentary, it is probable that the individuals who had converted to Christianity at the time of this letter, were suffering at the hands of their masters because they no longer joined them in idol worship. They were being mistreated because they had been called to follow Jesus.

Unfortunately, it may be in our future to be mistreated because we do not adhere to popular thinking on areas of abortion and what constitutes a marriage. How will you handle harsh treatment? Will you endure it with patience?

1Corinthians 4:11-12 To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty, and are poorly clothed, and are roughly treated, and are homeless; and we toil, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure;

Look at the question in 1 Peter 2:20 again, “What kind of merit is there when you are punished for your sin, and you quietly accept it?” The answer is none! We all sin. Sometimes we make deliberate choices to sin. Say you are in a hurry and decide that since the road is clear that you can hedge on a stop sign – ‘the rolling stop’. If there is an officer nearby you will be pulled over and receive a ticket; or if there are cameras and your picture is taken, you will receive a notice by mail. You’ve been caught and hopefully you willingly accept the penalty even though the amount of your ticket may put a significant dent in your budget. In this case, the punishment is deserved. You will get little to no sympathy for your error.

In the gospel of Luke we find a similar principle to the one contained in 1 Peter 2:20. Luke 6:32, "And if you love those who love you, what credit is [that] to you? For even sinners love those who love them”. There is behavior that is simply expected out of basic kindness for one another. Think of a child saying, ‘Mommy, I shared my cookie with so and so because they shared their cookie with me’, contrasted with, ‘Mommy, I shared my cookie with so and so even though they had nothing to give me’. Which takes greater effort?

Accepting consequences for bad choices, showing kindness to those who treat you well, being polite to those who are polite in return, are reasonably easy behaviors. Turn these scenarios around and this is when we need to buffet our flesh – being shamed for the right choices, showing kindness to those who treat you harshly, being polite to someone who mocks or is rude. Our response in the flesh is to prove ourselves, to share harsh words and fight.

When Peter addressed the Christians who had been dispersed, they were a minority, and many had left their Jewish faith of upholding the law. This alone caused separation and suffering. Imagine leaving an entire culture and its practices. These Christians then found themselves in fellowship with other Christians who had formerly been disdained because of their heathenism and idolatry practices. You can imagine the motley crew they were! From a worldly perspective, this group of ‘new’ Christians was an upset to those around them, and as a result they were treated unfairly, and even persecuted, because of their faith, because they were doing what was right in God’s sight. They were a threat to tradition and what had been widely accepted.

How difficult is it to keep silent and allow others to treat you unfairly when it is undeserved?

It is understood and accepted that when we err, miss the mark, sin, or offend, we should be willing to suffer the consequences. If I steal something from a store, get caught and must pay a fine I am getting what I deserve. However, the Bible tells us that if we suffer for doing right, specifically in the case of representing our faith, we should be patient and endure that also.

Matthew 5:10-12 "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. "Blessed are you when [men] cast insults at you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of Me. "Rejoice, and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Why would we choose to endure difficulty with a quiet spirit? – Because it finds favor with God. It is not the punishment or ill-treatment that gives God glory, it is my response in seeking to follow His instruction and example. The verses in Matthew 5 are not a call to make oneself a martyr. We do not need to seek persecution for our faith, but if and when it presents itself, we are to respond properly. This is a repetition of the precepts we have been studying for several weeks.

1Peter 2:18-19 Servants, be submissive to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but also to those who are unreasonable. For this [finds] favor, if for the sake of conscience toward God a man bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly.

Our obedience and submission gives God glory. Consider again how difficult it is to bear up under unjust treatment. Under these circumstances, who are you caused to trust? Who becomes your strength and purpose? What happens to your focus? Often, these opportunities cause our reliance upon God to deepen. Our dependence on Him proves our faith. When we go to God with hearts of humility, understanding our need, and seeking comfort in Him, He is glorified.

Further along in 1 Peter, chapters 3 and 4, we are given instruction to recognize the blessedness of suffering for Christ.

1Peter 3:14 But even if you should suffer for the sake of righteousness, [you are] blessed. AND DO NOT FEAR THEIR INTIMIDATION, AND DO NOT BE TROUBLED,

1Peter 4:14 If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.

When our position and decisions are based on the truths in God’s word, we can be at peace. We can rest in the knowledge that before God we are innocent. Our goal is to bring glory to Him with our lives, to be a witness of His righteousness, to encourage those around us who know Him, and to draw those who don’t know Him to His redeeming love.

Therefore –

We are to humbly admit when we have wronged and quietly take the punishment; and we are to humbly submit when we are wrongly accused because it finds favor with God.

“For after all, what glory {is it}, or what can you possibly value yourselves upon, if, when ye have committed an offence, and are buffeted and corrected for it, ye endure {it}? How can you indeed do otherwise? or if you could, how shameful were it in such a case to rise against the hand of your injured masters? But if, when you have done good, and yet suffer through their tyranny and perverseness, ye endure {it} meekly and patiently, this {is} acceptable and graceful before God; his eye, which always judges of the true beauty of characters aright, is even delighted with such a spectacle, though exhibited in the lowest rank of human life”, Philip Doddridge N.T.

Is the time God has given you on this earth better spent in argument or acceptance? In defense of yourself or in defending the hope you have in Christ?

Are you displaying Christ’s example in your responses?

Notice, where your acceptance is to be found. The words in 1 Peter 2:20 say, “this finds favor with God”. We are not to look for thanks and praise from those around us. When we do bear unjust persecution with a quiet spirit, we should thank God for the grace which enables us to do so (cf. Spurgeon Devotional Commentary). None of this is for our kudos or glory. Our responses should be borne out of gratitude for God’s love and faithfulness towards us. If we become discouraged or disheartened because others do not notice our steadfast commitment even through difficulty, then we must check our heart motivation. God sees all things; we are ultimately serving Him.

Psalm 115:1 Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to Thy name give glory because of Thy lovingkindness, because of Thy truth.

Romans 12:1-2 I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, [which is] your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.

Patience, Faithfulness and Diligence

Ruth 3:16-18

Ruth 3:16 And when she came to her mother-in-law, she said, "How did it go, my daughter?" And she told her all that the man had done for her.17 And she said, "These six [measures] of barley he gave to me, for he said, 'Do not go to your mother-in-law empty-handed.'“ 18 Then she said, "Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out; for the man will not rest until he has settled it today."

We have Ruth returning from the festivities at the end of harvest. She obediently followed Naomi’s instruction to attend the activities at the threshing floor where she secretly let Boaz know of her desire to have him fulfill his role as kinsman redeemer for her late husband’s name. Boaz reacted kindly toward her and sent her home with a gift of grain and a promise that he would indeed take care of the matter. Yet, only if the one who was next of kin was unable to fulfill his obligation.

Naomi was likely anticipating the return of her daughter-in-law since she welcomed her with the question, ‘How did it go, my daughter’. This question may have been one of surprise. Remember, Ruth got up before the morning light as Boaz had told her, then he had sent her on her way before anyone had the opportunity to speak poorly of them. It was likely that Naomi had not expected Ruth to show up so early in the morning. Perhaps she wondered what had happened and maybe thought things did not go as well as she had hoped.

Considering this response, how often do we have expectations of something going a certain way? When circumstances do not develop the way we think they should we are apt to think the worst or wonder what the problem may be. Sometimes, in fact often, we cannot see things clearly. God has a perfect plan. It is good for us to trust in His timing and His execution of the events of our lives.

Ruth then gave her account of Boaz’s response. She showed her mother-in-law the grain Boaz had sent with her. Naomi’s reply in verse 18 is an example for us to follow. She tells Ruth to sit still and wait until Boaz gives her an answer, Ruth 3:18 Then she said, "Wait, my daughter, until you know how the matter turns out. Remember in Ruth 3:12-13 what Boaz said to Ruth on the threshing floor, “And now it is true I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than i. Remain this night, and when morning comes, if he will redeem you, good; let him redeem you. But if he does not wish to redeem you, then I will redeem you, as the Lord lives. Lie down until morning”.

Boaz was going to make certain that neither of them acted too quickly without paying attention to facts. This may mean that decisions cannot be made right away. It may take time to sort things out to be certain all information is considered.

How often might we think to ourselves that we need to do something to fix a situation or to figure out an answer NOW?

Once we have taken care of our responsibility in a circumstance, we need to be okay with knowing it is not up to us to make everything right. Instead, we are to have the attitude spelled out for us in the Psalms.

Psalm 37:3-5 Trust in the LORD, and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it.

Trust <batach> to hie for refuge, to be confident or sure, to put confidence, to (make to) hope.

We are to hie, or move fast, to safety. A refuge is something or someone turned to for assistance or security. Our confidence is to be in the Lord, Jehovah, the eternal God. We are to turn quickly to a heart that trusts that God is working.

Do you seek to act according to His will?
Do you believe God will not fail you?

Sometimes, we can choose to change direction because we do not see results or we do not get answers fast. We like to take matters into our own hands! Listen to this commentary, “To trust in the Lord, on his promises for support … persevering in the path of duty, however … discouraging it may appear” (Thomas Haweis).

We have a responsibility to place our trust in God even if circumstances are not what we think they ought to be. In fact, we are to be busy about doing the things God would have us do while we are trusting in His direction and care – “do good; dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness”.

Be at rest right where God has you. Your security is in God, not in circumstances.

Are you able to find delight in the Lord?

Delight <anag> to be soft or pliable. Think about this for a moment. Perhaps your answers will not be God’s answers. That is okay. Our own determination for what should be can derail us from seeing something with different possibilities. God is in charge!

Are we open to a different direction than perhaps the one we have entertained?
Do we allow ourselves to consider an alternative that we had not thought of?
Are we able to trust in God when His direction does not make sense in our mind?

Consider anyone in authority. Their position means they make decisions for all those for which they are responsible. Parent/child, Teacher/student, Employer/employee, and Government/citizens, are all examples of these relationships. While these relationships are all subject to error because of human limits, we are still to move, even without understanding, in the direction we are told.

God, who is perfect in all His ways, and understands all things, and desires to bless His children, tells us to trust in Him and be flexible to His plan.

When we seek our joy in the Lord, through His word and promises, He will bestow upon us everything that is good. If our delight is in pleasing God, our desires will be for those things that glorify His name.

Psalm 43:4 Then I will go to the altar of God, To God my exceeding joy; and upon the lyre I shall praise Thee, O God, my God.

Psalm 104:34 Let my meditation be pleasing to Him; As for me, I shall be glad in the LORD.

“Think what he is, and what you are; and at once, both wonder and yield. And what else have you to delight in? What thing will you name that shall supply the place of GOD, or be to you in the stead of him? Moreover, who should delight in him but you -- his friends, his sons, those of his own house? Think what life and vigor it will infuse into you, and that "the joy of the Lord will be your strength," Treasury of David

“The desires of God, and the desires of the righteous, agree in one; they are of one mind in their desires”. John Bunyan.

Commit <galal> to roll (literally or figuratively); roll (away, down, together), run down, seek.

“Roll thy way upon -- as one who lays upon the shoulder of one stronger than himself a burden which he is not able to bear”. William De Burgh, D.D., in "A Commentary on the Book of Psalms. Dublin:" 1860.

Think about what happens when you commit to something. You devote yourself to someone or something. You put all your efforts confidence and trust into the thing that you have determined is important. Seek God; commit your way to follow Him. This is an active choice to follow God in obedience – even if you are unsure of the direction.

Psalm 22:8 "Commit [yourself] to the LORD; let Him deliver him; Let Him rescue him, because He delights in him."

Proverbs 16:3 Commit your works to the LORD, and your plans will be established.

Psalm 55:22 Cast your burden upon the LORD, and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken.

Consider how well you do following your own wisdom.

Where do you place your concerns?
Do you fully expect God to take care of your circumstances, to fulfill your desires, to accomplish what is needed to grow you into His likeness?

He will do it! God will certainly cause His will for you to be done. This is not a maybe.

Luke 12:29 "And do not seek what you shall eat, and what you shall drink, and do not keep worrying.

Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

“When thou hast any difficult business in hand, and art doubtful of the success; or when thou knowest not what course to take, for the accomplishing of thy honest designs; leave all to the Lord, and trust to him in pious and upright courses, that he will direct and assist thee, and bring things to a good issue.” Patrick/Lowth/Whitby/Lowman Commentary

“Commit thy way unto the Lord. Roll the whole burden of life upon the Lord. Leave with Jehovah not thy present fretfulness merely, but all thy cares; in fact, submit the whole tenor of thy way to him. Cast away anxiety, resign thy will, submit thy judgment, leave all with the God of all. What a medicine is this for expelling envy! What a high attainment does this fourth precept indicate! How blessed must he be who lives every day in obedience to it! Trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. Our destiny shall be joyfully accomplished if we confidently entrust all to our Lord. We may serenely sing --

"Thy way, not mine, O Lord, However dark it be; O lead me by thine own right hand, Choose out the path for me."

"Smooth let it be or rough, It will be still the best; Winding or straight, it matters not, It leads me to thy rest."

"I dare not choose my lot, I would not if I might; But choose Thou for me, O my God, So shall I walk aright."

"Take thou my cup, and it With joy or sorrow fill; As ever best to thee may seem, Choose thou my good and ill."

The ploughman sows and harrows, and then leaves the harvest to God. What can he do else? He cannot cover the heavens with clouds, or command the rain, or bring forth the sun or create the dew. He does well to leave the whole matter with God; and so to all of us it is truest wisdom, having obediently trusted in God, to leave results in his hands, and expect a blessed issue.” Treasury of David

We are to choose to trust God, we are to find our delight in Him alone, and we are to commit to His perfect plan, having confidence that He is in control.

After Naomi tells Ruth to wait, she gives more insight into the character of Boaz, for the man will not rest until he has settled it today.

Determination. Follow-through. True to his word. Boaz can be counted on to take care of the matter as he said he would. He does not lay his responsibility aside for someone else to figure out. He is not idle, wasting time, hoping the matter will resolve itself. He does what is needed to follow through with his promise to Ruth.

Boaz’s actions remind us of his integrity and faithfulness. We see wisdom in waiting upon God’s answers and direction when we have done all that we could. We see wisdom in the necessity to be diligent to take care of the responsibility we have. Both of these things are necessary in our walk with God.

What is your response?

Addressing Patience Again

Consider the opposite reaction of having patience with others. Impatience shows itself in having a short-temper, often being critical of another and having an attitude of tolerating an individual rather than trying to encourage them.

Developing patience with circumstances recognizes God is in control, working all things for our good and the good of others as we are reminded in Romans 8:28, which says, “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to [His] purpose”. We do not call the shots! It is not our screenplay to write, it is God’s work to direct.

Learning to have patience with self, first recognizes our sinful nature then realizes the need to fight against worldly desires and thinking. We should not be surprised that we mess up! We are in need of a Savior. We are entirely dependent on Jesus’ sacrifice for our eternal redemption, and His power to live in the present according to His will. It is good to be impatient with sin that continues to hold us, yet if we live in the guilt of recounting our many failures, we fail to understand who we are. We are to be patient with our weakness as God leads us through circumstances that grow our dependence on Him. We will not be perfect until we are fully sanctified in heaven. If you have accepted Christ as Lord and Master of your life, He has chosen you. Ask for forgiveness, claim His forgiveness, and move forward to be used by Him. I love the encouraging words in Hebrews 12:1, “Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us”.

Read the truths in 1 John 1:6-9, “If we say that we have fellowship with Him and [yet] walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the light as He Himself is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness”.

Having patience with others is perhaps the most obvious struggle for the majority of us. We are inherently proud. Even if you don’t think you are proud, the Bible will tell you otherwise. Proverbs 14:12 speaks of the result of our pride, “There is a way [which seems] right to a man, but its end is the way of death”.

So how do we develop the patience we are told to have for others?

We look at the perfect example of Jesus. Even when He was falsely accused, he did not fight to share His opinion (Isaiah 53:7; Acts 8:32; Matthew 27:14). When I attempt to consider the patience Jesus constantly extends towards me, it is impossible to comprehend. Who am I then, to show any amount of impatience towards others?

Patience is to be exercised toward all those around us. 1 Thessalonians 5:14 says, “And we urge you, brethren admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with all men”. This patience spoken of is longsuffering. This is not a one-time thing, like saying ‘I was patient’. It is continued, enduring patience.

We must address pride. Ecclesiastes 7:8 tells us that being patient in spirit is better than being proud in spirit. Pride, or the feeling of self-worth, satisfaction and self-elevation is not a character any of us wishes to be attached to our name. Yet it shows itself in many discreet ways. Do you know the best way to do something, or the only way? Are you willing to adapt your thinking to meet another (unless it is against God). Do you quickly take issue with those things are neither here or there? These thoughts lead to impatience with others. Can you accept personal criticism? Are you quick to defend yourself? Do you use words that cause another to feel small? Are your interests more important than the concerns of others? Are others constantly not quick enough for you, or exact enough or performing to your liking? All of these questions address a heart that is holding itself above others.

In order to grow in our patience with others, we need to keep ourselves off the throne and be certain God is the One we live for. It is not about us, it is all about Him. The questions above may be difficult to sincerely address but our mindset needs to be focused on our own deficiency and need of Christ if we are to hold others above ourselves, encouraging one another with His love.

I often use this prayer in Colossians –

“…We have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please [Him] in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God, strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light” (Colossians 1:9-12).

Be encouraged as you grow in patience towards all men. Seek to squash pride in your heart and solicit patience. “And let endurance have [its] perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:4).

Focus heavenward with me, Sharyn.

Patience

! I have been set apart as God’s possession. I don’t stop to think about this often enough. In fact, I can forget this quiet easily if I allow myself to listen to a world that is based on comparison and performance. I am challenged to be certain that I act in a manner which displays the security my soul knows in Christ.

What does it mean to have patience? Most of us would quickly admit this is an area in which we need to grow in relating with others. But, how about being patient with circumstances? And being patient with ourselves?

Circumstances can change quickly and drastically. Sometimes we know ahead of time that we may need to prepare for a difficult time, and at other times we are suddenly presented with unexpected conditions. How do we react to these times? If we are honest, many of us would agree that discouragement can present itself. Especially if a difficult or unwanted time in our life persists.

Think of a child that seemingly was following Christ and decided ‘religion’ was not for them and after years of prayer, no change is noticed; or an illness that decides to last much longer than expected and now has no end in sight. Perhaps the need of a decent job to provide for the family has still not presented itself, or years go by and you find yourself waiting upon that ‘future mate’ you were hoping to have met by now. Are we able to be patient with these circumstances?

Let’s look at the word patience. WordWeb defines patience as having a good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence (relating to circumstances and others, respectively). The Bible, in Hebrews 10:36 defines patience as endurance. The word actually means cheerful or hopeful endurance and has constancy and continued waiting in its meaning. This is more than just an attitude of, ‘okay, I’ll get through this if I have too’, it is an expectant positive outcome that God has a plan and it is good and the end result will be for His praise. This type of patience through circumstances is filled with hope.

Hebrews 10:36 says, “For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised”.

According to scripture we need patience! Not a shocker, but certainly a reminder. Patience or endurance is necessary, it is required, in fact it is demanded as we walk in a manner that is pleasing to God. The attitude of our patience is hope and the condition of our hope is doing the will of God. We can’t miss this important stipulation. It is easier to have patience or show endurance when it looks as though things will turn out the way we expect. But, do we always know what the best outcome is? I like to think I do but the reality is, often the outcome I have thought would be good is not what God has planned or allowed. What then happens to my patience? The idea of doing the will of God is ongoing. In others words, it is continuing to do what He has required in the journey and work He has set before me with a determination and choice that desires to please Him – in all circumstances.

With any and every circumstance, we are given a charge to learn and practice and grow in patience. We have assurance from God that we will receive His promises to us. Moving on to my second thought, perhaps having patience with oneself is an abstract thought to some, but I notice I am able to be much more patient with others than I am with myself. I am really hard on myself when I don’t meet the expectations I have set.

There is a truth in Psalm 139:14 which tells me “I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are Thy works, and my soul knows it very well”. I am to thank God and praise Him for how He has made me! I have been set apart as God’s possession. I don’t stop to think about this often enough. In fact, I can forget this quiet easily if I allow myself to listen to a world that is based on comparison and performance. I am challenged to be certain that I act in a manner which displays the security my soul knows in Christ. The truth is, God made me. He doesn’t make mistakes, and He made me to be with Him. If you have embraced Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you understand how much He loves you! His children are the object of His love. The Treasury of David poses this question, “Who can gaze even upon a model of our anatomy without wonder and awe? Who could dissect a portion of the human frame without marveling at its delicacy, and trembling at its frailty?” What does God expect of me? Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”

Recall the words written above in Hebrews 10:36 – ‘when you have done the will of God’. Is impatience with myself based on my lack of seeking to follow God? If my answer is yes, then I need to revisit His love and sacrifice for me and my response to Him. If my answer is no, then perhaps a bit more patience as I grow in my understanding and walk with God, can be exercised. Not an excuse for sin or misjudgment but also not a surprise when I mess up. If I am stopped in my tracks because I have erred then I am no longer an effective witness for Christ. I have been forgiven for sin past, present and future. This is not a license to sin but it is a reminder that Jesus chose to atone for my sin. I can confess with a sincere heart and continue to seek His righteousness. Until I reach the promise of a future in heaven and removal from the sin-nature I have, I will mess up – hopefully less and less as I mature in faith. I will not always reach my own expectation and certainly should not set myself up against the comparison and performance of the world.

I desire to exercise constant, hopeful endurance as I continue to practice patience with others, with circumstances and with myself. I pray you are there right along with me. Focus Heavenward, Sharyn.

With All Humility …

Humility is thinking rightly of ourselves and highly of Jesus; it’s recognizing who we are in light of who God is and what He has done.

Eph 4:2

Eph 4:1 I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, entreat you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, Eph 4:2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing forbearance to one another in love,

In our study on Ephesians 4:1, we took a closer look at what it means to be called a prisoner of the Lord. As someone under the control of Christ, the apostle Paul records words for us that beg a characteristic of children of God – that we walk in such a way to honor God. We are to represent the One we have bowed to. The privilege we have in being able to call God our heavenly Father is not without responsibility. Now, we move to the second verse of this chapter. I’m excited to dive in with you!

The word ‘with’ in the NAS begins the 2nd verse of Ephesians 4:2. ‘With’ denotes that there is something to accompany the thought beforehand. Therefore, Ephesians 4:2 answers a question for us, what does it look like to walk in a manner worthy of being God’s child?

With all humility. When I see this word, I immediately am reminded of who I am and who God is. We have every reason to be filled with a heart of humility. There is nothing to support a feeling of personal pride in the Gospel. Just consider the gospel message. God creates man – man sins against God – God provides the only solution in His Son Jesus Christ who is crucified for all men’s sin (and don’t forget, man was at the center of this most heinous act) – Jesus arose from the dead in victory over man’s sin – God’s relationship with man is restored. It’s all about God saving His children, redeeming us from our sin. We are nothing without God, we have nothing without God, there is no future without Him, there is no joy, no hope, no strength for the weary, and no light in the darkness. We are the ones in need!

Consider. What are you able to take credit for in your own life right now? Are you intelligent? Praise God! Are you a parent? Praise God! Have you been successful in your job? Praise God! Are you physically strong? Praise God! And even if you may be thinking that many of these things have come your way because of your hard work, consider who gave you the ability to work hard. Who put things into place so that you would be able to study and become intelligent? Who made it possible to conceive a child? Who designed your body to be capable?

I am blessed to know several people who are incredibly talented. I’m not just talking about an ability that is above most of us, but truly, above the top talented. One individual I know was destined for great fame, the timing was right, she even met someone who could launch her career into the world of voices such as Barbara Streisand and the like. Everything was in place, except … it was not God’s plan. She sometimes thinks of what might have been, yet totally accepts the blessings of God’s divine and perfect direction for her life. This takes a humble heart, and an absolute trust in God.

Having a heart of humility is not thinking poorly of ourselves, in fact, it glorifies God to recognize our special abilities and talent, rather it’s understanding who gifted us with our strengths. Humility is understanding our sin, our inability to rectify the stain of sin on our soul, and the need for our Savior. Humility is thinking rightly of ourselves and highly of Jesus; it's recognizing who we are in light of who God is and what He has done. It’s lowliness of mind. It’s knowing that anything you could or do accomplish anything it is only because God has specifically blessed you to do so. It’s having a modest and right view of who we are, a humble opinion of ourselves. Our only boast is in God. We are to esteem ourselves SMALL in light of our GREAT GOD.

Ps 34:2 My soul shall make its boast in the LORD; the humble shall hear it and rejoice.

Ps 44:6-8 For I will not trust in my bow, nor will my sword save me. 7 But Thou hast saved us from our adversaries, And Thou hast put to shame those who hate us. 8 In God we have boasted all day long, and we will give thanks to Thy name forever. Selah.

Jer 9:23 Thus says the LORD, "Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; Jer 9:24 but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice, and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things, "declares the LORD.

Humility of mind allows us to serve with a heart fully desiring to honor God and help others. Humility of mind has no expectation for self-gain or recognition. It doesn’t keep track of what others say. It doesn’t concentrate on telling others where they have erred. There is no need to point a finger at someone else when we are busy fighting sin in our own life. Consider. When you feel the need to share with someone else about a difficult conversation you’ve had, or how hard you’re working to make things right with others, who are you elevating? Humility of mind esteems others more than self. It doesn’t look for recognition. Humility of mind puts God on the throne. It accepts God’s plan, and His dealing with us, without dispute. Humbleness befits our calling as God’s children. Have you received forgiveness for your sin? Doddridge says, “let the remembrance of it engage you to behave with all humility and lowliness of heart, under a sense of your former guilt and misery, and your unworthiness of that mercy which God hath magnified towards you; and thus to carry it with meekness towards those who may have troubled you by their forwardness, tenderly passing over their infirmities and indiscretions, as sensible what great offences have been forgive to yourselves.”

Php 2:3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind let each of you regard one another as more important than himself;

And gentleness. This is translated from a different Hebrew word than humility but seems closely associated. The word meekness and also the phrase ‘quiet behavior’ are presented in several bible translations. As humility or lowliness of mind is directed at how we are to think of ourselves, gentleness or meekness refers more to our attitude towards others. When we have a right view of self, the temperament we have towards others is affected. We cannot be gentle or meek without first being humble. When a humble heart is present, then gentleness can be sown. We are then not so easily offended or angered. Have you been around someone who is irritable? This is the opposite of gentleness. Consider. The tone of your voice, your attitude, your demeanor and body language towards others. Are you exhibiting a spirit of gentleness? Do you accept injuries without the need to seek revenge? Do you accept the weaknesses of others or must you point out what they have done wrong?

Ga 6:1 Brethren, even if a man is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; [each one] looking to yourself, lest you too be tempted.

Many, many years ago, I was faced with an unfaithful husband. He was the one who left our marriage, he was the one who practiced infidelity, yet because of God’s grace in my life, I was able to forgive quickly. Why? Because I knew it was only because of God’s grace that I was not the one making unwise decisions. I could just as easily been the one who was caught in sin’s grasp. When we realize and accept our own sin problem, we become increasingly aware of our need for a Savior. Remembering the gentleness and forgiveness He has bestowed upon us, helps us to reciprocate a gentle spirit towards others.

Tit 3:1-2 Remind them to be subject to rulers, to authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good deed, 2 to malign no one, to be uncontentious, gentle, showing every consideration (humility, meekness, gentleness) for all men.

With patience. Patience or long-suffering is also bred from humility. What does it mean to have patience? This is a word most of us can work on in several areas of our life. It means to have fortitude, in this case to keep on keeping on in spite of difficult circumstances, to endure without complaining. The need for developing patience begins early on. The object of our patience changes as we move through life. We may need to learn patience as God clearly shows us the path we are to take in education. Patience may need to be practiced as we wait upon His direction for our future with a spouse or career or move. Of course, anyone with children has been educated in their own need to grow in patience as they guide their kids. There are many more examples that could be listed, but the importance of developing patience is something each of us has experienced and this will probably continue till we are called to our heavenly home. I love the way one commentary explains long-suffering, “Long-mindedness – never permitting a trial or provocation to get to the end of your patience”. Albert Barnes NT Commentary describes longsuffering this way: “Bearing patiently with the foibles, faults, and infirmities of others.” He goes on to suggest that patience should be seen in our manner of receiving the provocations which we meet with from others. How do you respond to the mistakes or short-comings of others? It may well be helpful to remember that God has made each of us to be different, unique. We may react differently to situations. For example, while some may become quiet, others may be more boisterous. Each of us has a different disposition and way of doing things, neither is right or wrong in most situations, just different. Our way of speaking, thinking, and reacting differ. Things that are of no importance to us and have little affect may be incredibly important to another and affect greatly. That’s okay!

Col 3:12 And so, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience;

Showing forbearance to one another. Take the idea of patience or long-suffering and add forbearance! We are to sustain one another, support each other even through the difficulties of life. We are to endure. This means, not once do we show humility, gentleness and patience but we continue to literally “hold oneself up against or put up with” weaknesses of others – just as Christ does with us. Included in the definition of forbearance is the word suffer. Consider. When you think of the real suffering Jesus endured for us on the cross, is it too much to ask that we ‘put up’ with others; can this even be categorized as true suffering?

Ro 15:1 Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength and not [just] please ourselves.

Ga 6:2 Bear one another's burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.

Our practice of patience and long-suffering towards others directly affects how we are to relate to one another in unity, as we will explore further in Ephesians 4:4. “There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling”.

1Co 13:4-7 Love is patient, love is kind, [and] is not jealous; love does not brag [and] is not arrogant, 5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong [suffered,] 6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

In love. Agape: affection or benevolence; specially a love-feast: -- (feast of) charity (-ably), dear, love. Agapao, to love in a social or moral sense.

1Co 13:1-7 If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 And if I have [the gift of] prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 And if I give all my possessions to feed [the poor,] and if I deliver my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing. 4 Love is patient, love is kind, [and] is not jealous; love does not brag [and] is not arrogant, 5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong [suffered,] 6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Gentleness, patience and forbearance are born in humility. Then a humble heart is demonstrated by our love for one another. Without love for one another, it is impossible to be unified in our pursuit of holiness and honoring God.

“With the greatest humility, and meekness, and with long-suffering, support one another under the miseries of life, by doing every good office in your power to each other, from a principle of unfeigned love”. Macknight on the Epistles

“The word signifies a diligent, industrious, and united endeavor, to preserve and keep, to support and maintain, to unity of the Spirit; that is, a union of heart and spirit, a unity of faith and doctrine, and unity of judgment and affection, amongst all the professors of Christianity”. William Burkitt New Testament

Walk worthy with humility and gentleness, patiently enduring each other because of love.

Slow as Molasses

Patience, reacting slow with careful thought and consideration and with purpose. The opposite of letting something ‘get under your skin’ to become a source of irritation or bother.

What is patience? How does it respond?

I think of honey. That’s right, honey. Honey takes an awful long time to pour into a spoon. It’s also sweet. Not in a hurry, but pleasing in its characteristics. Molasses, that’s another good picture of patience. There’s a saying, “slow as molasses”. This means to be exceptionally slow or sluggish, not fast at all. Patience, reacting slow with careful thought and consideration and with purpose. The opposite of letting something ‘get under your skin’ to become a source of irritation or bother.

To have patience, according to WordWeb, means you have a good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence. The words forbearance, longanimity, and solitaire are listed as synonyms. Of course, impatience is the opposite of patience and is the lack thereof. Impatience is having irritation with anything that causes delay.

Wow. I sort of wished I hadn’t approached this subject because it speaks a bit close to my heart, and not in a pleasing way. But, I believe God has led me here so I will forge on into this soul-searching thought and pray that there is someone out there who can relate and might be caused to consider addressing this not-so-easy issue. At the very least, you can pray for me, please!

A good place to begin is to look at the synonyms used for patience to flesh out our understanding.

Forbearance: 1. good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence; 2. a delay in enforcing rights, claims or privileges; refraining from acting. WordWeb

Longanimity: 1. good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence. WordWeb

The next synonym listed is interesting, it’s the word solitaire. Of course, I immediately think of the card game. The definition includes not only the card game but this is the name of an extinct flightless bird related to the dodo. Not sure what that has to do with patience other than sometimes it seems my show of patience is extinct then I might look like a dodo… The first definition for solitaire is listed as a gem, usually a diamond, in a setting by itself. Well, if we stretch this I suppose someone who has true patience would also be considered a gem!! Perhaps if someone were to live a solitary life, there would be no opportunity to express impatience with others…

There certainly seems to be a repetition of words as I looked up the meanings. You can hardly miss it, but just in case, it bears a closer look. A good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence.

Easy-going, cheerful, kind, agreeable. I like to think I can be all those things except when…

See the problem? There is no room for exception. Ugghhhhh. And, who am I to decide what is acceptable or to label someone incompetent. This is a difficult subject. When I first jotted down the idea for this study, I called it ‘patience with others’. I fully intended to seek encouragement on how I might be able to be longsuffering with other peoples’ issues. I have quickly realized the sole problem resides in my own understanding and grasp of patience in my personal thinking and attitude. This is one of those ‘God has hit me on the side of the head’ moments. And come to think of it, the idea of having to be patient with delay doesn’t tend to sit well with me – I don’t like delay!

As we continue to dig into what God says in His word about being patient, my desire is that a challenge is set forth for each of us to grow in this much needed area. Someday, perhaps, by God’s grace, I will have a seasoned character of patience that is descriptive of my life.

1Co 13:4-5 Love is patient, love is kind, and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered,

I’ve often used this scripture as a barometer when I begin to feel frustrated with others. I’ve known I never quite get passed the first few words but I think I’ve also put a convenient time limit on the patience part. Like, “I have been patient”, or “I’ll be patient for a while longer…” I’ve also realized I can be quite impatient with myself!

Love is patient; longsuffering; forbearing; enduring. So if I am acting impatiently, I am lacking love. We are not only to be patient with others but also with affliction rendered in our own lives.

2Co 1:6 But if we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; or if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which is effective in the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer;

The explanation of the words patient enduring here carries the meaning of a continuing cheerful or hopeful endurance. So now we have a clear explanation of the attitude that accompanies patience. It’s not tapping the foot on the floor or tapping the fingers loudly on the table while you wait! Or, making grunting noises or sighing loudly, or rolling the eyes…

A good natured tolerance of delay or incompetence is cheerfully waiting upon someone or something.

Another question comes to mind: But what about when we are right? Sometimes it just seems so obvious to us doesn’t it? What does the Word say?

2Ti 2:24 And the Lord's bond-servant must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged,

Enduring of ill. Patient. Unceasing. Patiently bearing continual wrongs or trouble. Including hostility or enmity. Patient even with those who antagonize you, or ‘get under your skin’ or seem to take forever to ‘follow the program’.

Isn’t this fun? Or not… I urge you to keep going, growth is good.

keep reading…

Tag: patience

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