The Need

Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised.For in just a little while, the Coming One will come and not delay. Hebrews 10:36-37 (NLT)

For a couple of days now I’ve been meditating on this scripture. Just taking time to chew on it. It has actually come up a few times this week in other places like the pastor’s sermon and even a book I’m reading. Thus I think it’s something I need to take note. As I’ve mentioned in previous post here, patience is not always a word I’m eager to embrace. Then it has the audacity to sit right next door to another one of those often unwelcome words for me – endurance.

Oh how easy it is to start a new thing but to continue in spite of adversity can be the most challenging part. When the results do not turn out the way I expected, it does not take a whole lot of words from the naysayers or even my negative self-talk to convince me to throw in the towel. To simply chalk it up as I misheard God. But, like a dog hanging onto a bone, this scripture refuses to loose it’s grip on my mind.

The writer points out that patient endurance is a need now. Not a want. The very situation I long to run away from and he speaks that I need to endure it but not just any old way. But to endure in patience. Why? So that I can continue to do God’s will. Only in continuing do I position myself to receive the promise. He says in just a while expect to see manifestation.

Leaving prematurely doesn’t stop the manifestation of the coming one. Only my ability to see it when it does show up. It’s like waiting for a bus and it seems to be late. After waiting for a few moments, I leave and catch a ride with someone else. Those who had the patience to wait were able to ride. But because I lack the ability to endure the wait, I missed the bus but it didn’t impact the bus arrival.

Dear Lord, I hear you speaking and I pray that you strengthen me as I wait upon you Lord. I don’t want to forfeit your promises that you have for me. I pray for every sister and brother that are torn between waiting longer or turning away. Father give them clarity on what your will is regarding the matter. If you’re calling them to stand, I pray that you will help them to endure filled with patience as only you can provide. We choose to take your word as final authority in our lives. In Jesus name, Amen.