Many have said that you should never pray for patience…it will encourage the Lord to test your faith in many ways. But steadfastness, described as a life of faithfulness amid troubles and afflictions, may require a great deal of patience. The Rev. George Horne, an English churchman in the 1700s, provided this definition: “Patience is the guardian of faith, the preserver of peace, the cherisher of love, the teacher of humility. Patience governs the flesh, strengthens the spirit, sweetens the temper, stifles anger, extinguishes envy, subdues pride; she bridles the tongue, restrains the hand, tramples upon temptations, endures persecutions, consummates martyrdom.”

Let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

James 1:4

The apostle Paul tells us as Christians “to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God…Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God.” (Romans 12:1-2) James says to “count it all joy” when you are tested (James 1:2) so that you gain the full effect of God’s plan for you.

Be faithful. Pray for others enduring trials – and for this nation’s leaders facing impossible decisions, that they may never doubt God’s goodness and grace.

Recommended Reading: James 1:2-8, 12-17