Patience is a Virtue

One of the things I think God has been teaching me over the years, but most especially since I got married, has been patience. 

As I've mentioned in previous posts, I have this problem with demanding immediate gratification for things I want. I know, it's horrifying when I realize how spoiled rotten I sound. 

Then I married Jon.  In many ways, he is my complete opposite. This tends to be reflected in finances and big decisions we have to make.   Over our year and a half of marriage, there have been many times when I've thought we "needed" something but weren't necessarily able to afford at the time.  I'm ashamed to say that I wasn't the easiest person to be married to during those moments.  Through God's grace however, I have worked very hard to curtail those reactions when I realize I can't have something I want right away.  I've had to be patient and realize that, while I can't immediately have it, if I just practice some self-control, we'll eventually be able to afford it and I'll be none-the-worse for the wear.

While it's been easier for me to tackle my reactions when being patient for material things, there are other issues that have proven to be a greater struggle.  I can't help but think however, that it is another way for God to chip away at my character weaknesses, so that I can trust in Him more and become more Christ-like.  It's just so much harder when the thing you want so desperately can't immediately become a reality.  It's in times like these however, that I have to remind myself of the many wonderful things I do have and be thankful for them.  I know so many others would give anything to be in my position, and I should be grateful.  In these times of struggle, I've found the following verses to be helpful.

Proverbs 13:12 "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."

Romans 8:28: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose" 

Psalms 37:4: "Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart."

Blessed be the name of the Lord.