Be Patient

1 Thessalonians 5:14 And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone.
 
PATIENCE is very difficult for most of us, isn’t it? This can be especially true of leaders. Leaders want to accomplish tasks, and they expect those who help them to have the same eagerness they have. It is especially difficult to be patient with people who ae idle, timid or weak.
   One way we can learn patience is to first see each person as one created in God’s image. Yes, it’s difficult, for example, to see God in idle people. But each human being begins in the mind and purpose of God from eternity past. This grand view of God’s creation can humble one’s heart to consider, “God has decided to create each of us. How do we work together to honor our Father?”
   The first thing he wants us to do is to love him. The second thing he wants is for us to love others as ourselves. Our love for God becomes love for his creation. So then, when you are with someone who may be timid about engaging in the church, weak regarding their faith or idle in light of God’s commands to work, patient love becomes a key to helping that person engage with God and the church.
   Consider then, that patience may lead you to help someone learn to work. You might invite one to help with a project in the church or to volunteer at a local charity. People prone to idleness are generally without purpose. Helping them to discover their own value in God’s sight can change their heart.
   Patience can also give you time to help a timid person become acquainted with people in the church. Inviting one to a Bible study, sitting with them at a church event or inviting them to a meal in your home is a great way to build relationships. Show interest in a person’s life. You will give them value and help them gain confidence when they understand someone is interested in them. A timid person is often fearful of many things. Patience can be a key to unlock those fears to help one become confident in Christ’s love.
   How does one give strength to the weak? Sometimes people are weak because of disability or age. We can patiently help such people to do projects that are easy for us. The spiritually weak need patient teaching and coaching. All of us have some weakness in regard to God’s Word. An effective church strengthens each other to be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. (As you) put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. (Ephesians 6:10-11)
   Discipleship work is patient work. Consider how the Lord has been patient with us. Be thankful for those God has directed to help, encourage and teach you into a stronger, bolder life of faith. Be patient to help others.