Weekend Words

 I've decided to add Amish Peace to the morning devotionals mentioned in my previous Weekend Words post.  This was yesterdays reading...

Gently Patience Comes

"If we look forward to something we don't yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently." - Romans 8:25

Patience is a virtue worked into the fabric of everyday Amish life.  The pace of a horse on a country road affords time for contemplation.  When Amish farmers plant seeds, they don't expect to get a crop to harvest overnight.  Ralph Waldo Emerson once wrote, "Adopt the pace of Nature.  Her secret is patience."  The Amish embrace and live much of this statement.

Are you impatient about something today?  Are you waiting for an answer, good news, relief?  If you're like me, you might wish that God would work faster in your circumstances.  You want a harvest of joy or peace, but all you see outside is frozen ground.  You can't picture anything different, and the waiting begins to wear on your soul.  God anticipated that you'd feel this way, and He provided exactly what you need in order to wait patiently - Himself.

Our hope grows as we turn our attention away from our own desires and towards the One who gives all life and goodness.  When we understand who God is, we will better understand who we are.  When we allow Him to love us, we love others better in numerous ways - including being patient: "Love is patient and kind.  Love is not jealous or boastful or proud." (1 Corinthians 13:4)

Today if you are struggling with being patient, find a moment to reconnect with the world God has made - the world of slow growing trees and of clouds that move lazily across the sky.  The world of icicles and frosty windowpanes.  As you look at creation, ask God to plant a seed of patience in your heart and to show you how to nurture that seed with prayer and faith, just as an Amish farmer does with the seeds he plants.

Lord, I often want quick answers and fast solutions, but when I rush ahead, I not only miss the beauty found along the journey, I also miss walking in step with You.  Slow my heart and my steps to match your perfect pace.  Amen