PATIENCE by S. M. C.

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Apr 26, 1877

PATIENCE

By S. M. C.

THIS is a subject of vital importance to those professing godliness. While we have to try to live godly in this present evil world, we have to battle against a wily foe, who is working with all his power to deceive mankind, and if possible to make their damnation sure. He is acquainted with all our weaknesses, and knows the very point upon which we can stand the least temptation. The enemy throws trials and temptations in our way, hoping that through some of these things we might become impatient, and grieve the good spirit, and so give the enemy a stronger hold upon us.

Patience is one of the Christian graces which should be carried into every avenue of life. At home by the fireside, at work on the farm or in the shop—patience is needed at all times and in all places. We see many men who are always fretful, disagreeable, unpleasant, unhappy; who cannot live peaceably with their neighbors nor with their families. Everything goes wrong with them. Poor fellows; what trouble they have! What is the matter with them? We think they have need of patience.

We have seen such people professing godliness, and those, too, who are hoping that it may be said of them, “Here is the patience of the saints.” Rev. 14:12. What shall we say to them? The apostle Paul says to such ones, “O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith; lay hold on eternal life.” 1 Tim. 6:11, 12. God regards patience as a great virtue in the Christian life. Read the following texts: Heb. 12:1; Jas. 5:7, 8, 11; 2 Pet. 1:6; Luke 21:19; 1 Pet. 2:20; Rom. 12:12; Heb. 6:12; 10:36. “For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.”

Then, my brother, let us remember that patience is the mainspring to a Christian life. And may God help us to lay aside every weight and the sin that doth so easily beset us, and run with patience the race set before us. S. M. C.