Distinct Patience in Christ

Pray – (1/2 minute)

Read – (2 1/2 minutes) – “ But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23)   
      Passage: Psalm 111:1-5

         There is an old preacher’s joke where the preacher says, “I would like everything about the ministry, if it weren’t for people.” That tongue in cheek comment comes from the reality that dealing with people is not always easy and Baptist churches don’t get reputations for have church conflicts and even splits over disagreements about things such as the color of carpets and walls, music in worship, minor expenditures or even something as petty as serving deviled eggs. As frustrating as those things can be, people are the very reason we have a ministry. God loves people and He wants us to be distinct in how we deal with people.

One of the most important characteristics that believers need to exercise with one another is patience. Relationships can be frustrating and hurtful at times, and patience that is an essential character trait for dealing with relationships in those times. The distinct patience of Christ doesn’t get upset easily or hold a grudge when one is frustrated or disappointed with people. Loving people requires patience and God will help you have it.

Apply - (2 1/2 minutes)
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Pray - (1 1/2 minutes)