One Sunday, when I was a relatively new believer, I made the following comment: “I need to pray for patience.” The collective gasp and the advice that followed was surprising and resulted in probably the worst guidance I could have ever received. “Scott,” they said, “I wouldn’t do that because then God will really test your patience.”
I’ve heard this same advice over the years from new and old believers. Where did this way of thinking come from? Why wouldn’t I pray for help in this area? I pray for counsel in so many other areas, so why should patience be any different? It’s not as though I won’t need it, whether I pray for it or not. I’m human. I live in this world. I have three kids. Trials are inevitable. Patience is needed, and it will be tested.
When did God ever tell us not to pray for patience? Correct me if I’m wrong—and I’m wrong often—but my understanding is that He calls us to come to Him with all things. I want God to renew my mind, and I know that process includes testing, friction and time in the wilderness that can seem to last forever. I will ask Him for the patience not just to endure the testing but to embrace it.
I’ve come to trust that God can take all things, the good and the bad, and weave them together for a greater purpose. I will continue to pray for patience all the time, and I will enjoy the ride.
Count it all joy.
Scott Tredeau
