How can our patience be strengthened? Human patience is developed through hardships. It’s in the Bible, Romans 5:3, TLB. “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials for we know that they are good for us -- they help us learn to be patient.” James 1:3-4, TLB. “For when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it grow, and don’t try to squirm out of your problems. For when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete.”

I feel impatient so often. Will God help? Good question! Find out the result of asking for the Holy Spirit in your life in Galatians 5:22-23, NIV. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Patience comes when we continually ask for God to fill our lives so we can live like Him.

I need encouragement to remain patient and faithful to God when things are going bad. You’ll find it in the Bible in Revelation 14:12, TLB. “Let this encourage God’s people to endure patiently every trial and persecution, for they are his saints who remain firm to the end in obedience to his commands and trust in Jesus.”

How will God’s people treat each other? Look in Ephesians 4:2, TLB. “Be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.”

What is the promise to those who are patient? Look in Hebrews 6:12, TLB. “Then, knowing what lies ahead for you, you won’t become bored with being a Christian, nor become spiritually dull and indifferent, but you will be anxious to follow the example of those who receive all that God has promised them because of their strong faith and patience.”

I want Jesus to come quickly. Why should I be patient for that? That’s a good question, but look in James 5:7-8, TLB. “Now as for you, dear brothers who are waiting for the Lord’s return, be patient, like a farmer who waits until the autumn for his precious harvest to ripen. Yes, be patient. And take courage, for the coming of the Lord is near.”