Why God is Patient

“Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance:

Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-of whom I am the worst.

But for that reason I was shown mercy, so that in me, the worst of sinners,

Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those

who believe on Him and receive eternal life.” 1 Timothy 1:1516 (NIV)



These are the words of Paul to his son-in-the-faith, Timothy. We see transparency here. Paul, the writer of almost half of the New Testament and traveler across the known world as he spread the gospel, considered himself the worst of sinners. If he thinks of himself in this way, we should think of ourselves as sinners saved by grace.

Jesus Christ demonstrates His love to others through us by displaying His patience in our lives. He makes us into His image so that others may see Him in our lives. When we surrender our hearts to Jesus, we give Him full reign.

Jesus Christ shows His unlimited patience-perseverance without end. As humans, we sometimes find ourselves ‘running out of patience’, ‘at the breaking point’ or we feel someone is ‘trying our patience.’ Our Lord and Savior has persistence that will not end and displays that quality of His character as He waits for me to get things right.

As I wrote this, we were still in the Lenten season. During this time we aim to draw closer to Jesus Christ and get to know Him better. I sat in my living room and wondered if we can ever fully understand how great Christ’s mercy and grace and patience can be. I believe His patience, like His mercy and grace, is matchless.

As I transcribed this essay to my computer, I found I have to live this passage. I choose not to go into the details but I had to allow God to work with me on a few issues that, at one time, I would have been very hurt about and would have shown my broken heartedness or my anger in a couple of situations. Yes, I have times I live what I study or even write about. Can you identify with this feature of my life?