Reflections on: . . . Matthew 7:9-11: Pray for patience

Have you ever heard someone say "Please pray for me. I need patience", heard the response "Oh, don't pray for patience. When I prayed for patience . . . " and then had to listen as the person told a horror story of something terrible that happened? I made the mistake of saying that once and was lovingly rebuked. A wise person told me: "Why do you think God would give you something other than what you've prayed for?"

Since that day, I've thought long and hard about the subject. Why would my Father, who loves me completely, give me trials when I've asked for one of His "good and perfect" gifts (James 1:17)? When we ask for wisdom, do we automatically expect to be plunged into a situation that requires the wisdom of Solomon? Or do we expect to suddenly be surrounded by idiots? Matthew 7:9,11 says, "Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? . . . How much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him!"

Is patience a good gift? I have four young children--my answer is a resounding yes!

The next time you hear someone say, "Don't pray for patience . . . ", gently tell them of the great love of our Father, who is just waiting to give us good gifts.

 

"Reflections on . . . ("is a column of brief reflections on Scripture passages. This one is by Kathleen Klassen of Black Creek, B.C. Freelance submissions (200-250 words in length) are welcome.

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