What does it mean that God is patient? It means he waits when he
does not have to wait. It means he postpones what he does not have to
postpone. It means he experiences what he does not have to experience.
Of course sometimes we have to wait, postpone, and experience things
because of actions outside of our control. Our patience is often more
about whether we will respond with joy and peace when our desires are
delayed. I can't change traffic, but I can choose to respond with
patience toward my fellow drivers. Sometimes, we do have the choice to
postpone, wait, or endure something or not. I can choose to be patient
as my son slowly puts on his shoes or impatiently inform him that he's
already taken too long. Sadly, we often prefer ease to patience.
God
is under no limitations or restrictions that come to him from the
outside. God never gets stuck in traffic. No force controls him, but
himself. He never has to wait for anything. He chooses patience. He
chooses to wait for our full glorification. He chooses to postpone the
full vindication of his glory and power. He chooses to experience the
stumbling and foolishness of his people and the blasphemy of his
enemies. He chooses patience, not because he has to, but because he
wants to. He even chooses to be patient with impatient people. Why does
he want to?
The Lord is not slow to
fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you,
not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach
repentance. 2 Peter 3:9
But I received mercy for this
reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his
perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for
eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:16
He chooses to be patient to
display his mercy, to reveal his love, to give time for many to turn to
him in repentance. He is patient again and again and again, days
innumerable, until the end of time.
Thank you, Lord, for the beauty and marvel of your patience toward us. You patience is truly a wonder to behold.
