Most of us experience intense times of focus, filled schedules, and approaching deadlines. How can we get it all done, maintain a positive attitude, and walk in love? As we grow up spiritually, we develop the ability to demonstrate the character of God no matter what is happening around us.

Our everyday activities and interaction with other people deplete our physical and spiritual energy. In fact every non-spiritual activity is burning up spiritual fuel. The secret to a loving and patient lifestyle can be found here in Jude. Jude 1:20 tells us, "But you, beloved, build yourself up founded on your most holy faith, make progress, rise like an edifice (structure) higher and higher, praying in the Holy Spirit; guard and keep yourself in the love of God; expecting and patiently waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Messiah which will bring you into eternal life." He said to guard and keep ourselves in the Love of God.

The love and character of God is defined in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, "Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God's love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail. Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, love's hopes are fade-less under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening]. Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end].

Here love's character is described as patient. Patience is steadfast despite opposition, difficulty or adversity. People often think patience is something you just have but rather it is a decision you make.

Be encouraged today, walking in the Love of God or Agape Love and being patient is a decision to be obedient to God, not a feeling or natural immediate responds. Many times growing up means we have to hold our tongue until our spirit overrides our flesh. Proverbs 15:1 says, "A soft answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger." It takes patience to restrain our flesh. Our flesh wants to stir it up, pick a fight, throw a tantrum and have everything our way. But God's ways are higher than our ways. God's love has been poured out in our hearts by His Holy Spirit. That outpouring produces the fruit of the Spirit and the character of God. People are not perfect but God's love is, and growth in Him develops patience.

Today's Scripture
Jude 1:20-21, 1 Corinthians 13:1-8 (Amp.), Proverbs 15:1

A Prayer for Today
Father in Heavenly, thank You, for Your perfect love that develops patience. As I focus on You, Your Will and Your Ways, I purpose to walk in love and demonstrate patience toward those around me. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Harvest World Outreach ChurchAll rights reserved. Used by permission.