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My responses in life matter, and I am fully responsible for them.

This truth hits hard; especially in light of the passage of Scripture in which I was reminded of it.  Pride and patience may be two of the most invasive and pervasive sins in the hearts of mankind.  Or perhaps I should just confess that they are so for me personally.  And oh how convoluted the two are in my soul!  My pride feeds my impatience, and my impatience feeds my pride.  This must not be!  There is a Judge standing at the door; he is Jesus Christ my Savior.  He was put to death so that these sins might be put to death within me.  He is coming soon!  He has promised.  I can diligently wait, doing what is mine to do with all faith in the One who truly wills and works in me.

God has his purposes and always comes through.  He has favor for those who endure in faith with all patience.  And not just waiting for ‘the rain’ to end the drought, but persevering until the fruitful harvest in the end.  Do I really want to see more of who God is and what he does?  Do I really want his joy and peace?  Do I truly desire that he be glorified?  Or do I just want my temporary relief?  My passing appeasement?  My fleeting fulfillment?  My own gloating glory?

Whatever offenses or injustices I encounter (real or perceived) are nothing compared to those received by my Savior Jesus Christ.  Whatever wrongs are done against me are not outside the awareness, sovereignty and jurisdiction of the King and Judge of the world Jesus Christ.  I can entrust myself to him, for he will judge justly.  I need not whine and complain.  I need not seek my own defense and justification.

Will you help me put away all prideful grumbling and whining?  Will you help me grow in integrity while being patient in injustice?  Will you let me (and others) help you do so as well?  Let’s help one another be steadfast, and receive the blessing of the Lord’s compassion and mercy.