Daily Devotions
How Jesus Redefined Patience
Reading for November 29th: Romans 14-16
For Christ did not please himself, but as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me."
Romans 15:3
When we think of the word "patience" we normally think in terms of having to wait for something. But the word can also be used to describe a burden to carry.
Patience can be a challenge when working with someone who is immature and selfish. This person may be a spouse, a sibling, an employee, a child, or even a child in the faith. They take advantage of your kindness and generosity. They can be ungrateful. They can even become hostile when you attempt to lovingly correct them. Patiently working with someone like this can be a heavy burden; and the longer you have to carry it, the heavier it becomes.
Whenever you become weary of your burden look at the cross. Know that Jesus has already carried on his back every sin you've ever committed. In fact, he's already had to put on his back every sin you'll ever commit.
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
