Presented by Lisa Bishop

Do you consider yourself a patient person?

If you are anything like me, I really don’t like waiting. I can get impatient when a meeting doesn’t start on time or when I am waiting for a friend who is running late for our lunch date. I can also be impatient when I am not feeling heard or understood, or when I have been praying about something for a long time and I am just not getting the clarity I crave. When do you find yourself lacking patience? Impatience runs the gamut. From small scenarios when your patience is tested to bigger circumstances in life that require endurance.

Proverbs 14:29 teaches us,Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.I want to share a few tips with you on developing patience.

Stop and do an internal inquiry: The next time you feel impatience surfacing stop and ask yourself, “Why am I getting impatient?” Sometimes we find ourselves swept up in a moment and getting what I call emotionally hijacked. We are not using our rational thinking brain. Stop to really examine why impatience is your go to at that moment. Matthew 12:34 says, the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart. What is going on in your heart?Make it a goal: When we set goals, they often revolve around things we want to achieve and not so much on who we want to be. Think about your vision for your relationships and how you want people to experience you. Be determined to have your mindset, attitude and heart set on practicing patience. This will create greater connection in your relationships.Practice patience in your daily life: Train yourself to be patient in the small things, such as waiting in line or dealing with unexpected delays. Use those moments as opportunities to intentionally cultivate self-restraint.Seek God's help: Remember you have the power of the Holy Spirit dwelling in you. Romans 8:26 says, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. Take time to ask for his help.

Join me in this prayer as we strive to live lives marked by patience.

“Father, thank you for being patient with me! Transform me with your love and with your spirit and help me to grow in my capacity for patience. I yield to you, Holy Spirit. Remind me I have a choice on how I respond to people and that when I ask, you will help me to handle any situation that comes my way with graciousness, kindness and patience. Amen.”