Topical Encyclopedia Patience is a virtue that is frequently extolled in the Scriptures, particularly in the context of waiting for God's salvation. This form of patience is not merely passive waiting but an active, faithful trust in God's timing and promises. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that encourage believers to exercise patience as they await the fulfillment of God's redemptive work.Biblical Examples and Teachings 1. Abraham's Patience: Abraham is a quintessential example of patience in waiting for God's promises. Despite his advanced age and the seeming impossibility of God's promise, Abraham waited patiently for the birth of his son Isaac. Hebrews 6:15 states, "And so Abraham, after waiting patiently, obtained the promise." 2. The Israelites in Egypt: The Israelites' deliverance from Egypt is another profound illustration of waiting for God's salvation. Despite years of slavery and hardship, they were called to trust in God's promise of deliverance. Exodus 14:13 records Moses' words to the people: "Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the LORD’s salvation, which He will accomplish for you today." 3. David's Trust in God's Timing: David, anointed as king while still a young shepherd, had to wait many years before ascending to the throne. During this time, he faced numerous trials and adversities but remained patient, trusting in God's timing. Psalm 27:14 reflects this attitude: "Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD!" 4. The Prophets' Anticipation: The prophets of the Old Testament often spoke of a future salvation that required patient waiting. Isaiah 25:9 captures this anticipation: "And in that day it will be said: 'Surely this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He has saved us. This is the LORD for whom we have waited. Let us rejoice and be glad in His salvation.'" 5. New Testament Encouragement: The New Testament continues to emphasize the importance of patience in waiting for God's ultimate salvation through Jesus Christ. James 5:7-8 exhorts believers: "Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the soil—how patient he is for the fall and spring rains. You too, be patient and strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near." 6. The Example of Jesus: Jesus Himself exemplified perfect patience, enduring suffering and the cross for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2). His life and sacrifice are the ultimate demonstration of waiting for God's redemptive plan to unfold. Practical Application Believers are called to exercise patience in their own lives as they await God's salvation, both in personal circumstances and in the broader context of His redemptive plan for the world. This patience is rooted in faith, hope, and love, trusting that God's timing is perfect and His promises are sure. Romans 8:25 reminds us, "But if we hope for what we do not yet see, we wait for it patiently." In practicing patience, Christians are encouraged to remain steadfast in prayer, immerse themselves in Scripture, and engage in fellowship with other believers, drawing strength and encouragement from the community of faith. As they do so, they reflect the character of Christ and bear witness to the hope that is found in Him alone. Torrey's Topical Textbook Lamentations 3:26It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Christian Graces. Of the Perturbations of the Soul which Appear as Right Affections ... Sanctification. A visit to the Harvest Field How to Make Use of Christ as the Truth, that we May Get Our Case ... Limiting God The Heart's Desire Given to Help Mission Work in China. "The Time of Trouble. " The Time of Trouble A Jealous God Resources What does it mean to wait on the Lord? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I know what God's timing is? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about dealing with difficult people? | GotQuestions.org Patience: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Patience: Christ, an Example of Patience: Exercise, Towards All Patience: General Scriptures Concerning Patience: Isaac Toward the People of Gerar Patience: Ministers Approved By Patience: Ministers should Follow After Patience: Necessary to the Inheritance of the Promises Patience: Saints Strengthened to All Patience: should be Accompanied by Faith Patience: should be Accompanied by Godliness Patience: should be Accompanied by Joyfulness Patience: should be Accompanied by Long-Suffering Patience: should be Accompanied by Temperance Patience: should Have Its Perfect Work Patience: Suffering With, for Well-Doing, is Acceptable With God Patience: The Congregation at Ephesus Patience: The Congregation at Thyatira Patience: The Thessalonian Christians Patience: They Who are in Authority, should Exercise Patience: To be Exercised: Bearing the Yoke Patience: To be Exercised: Bringing Forth Fruits Patience: To be Exercised: Running the Race Set Before Us Patience: To be Exercised: Tribulation Patience: To be Exercised: Waiting for Christ Patience: To be Exercised: Waiting for God Patience: To be Exercised: Waiting for God's Salvation Patience: To be Exercised: Waiting for the Hope of the Gospel Patience: To be Exercised: Well-Doing Patience: Trials of Saints Lead To Related Terms Steadfastness (15 Occurrences) Longsuffering (17 Occurrences) Long-suffering (23 Occurrences) |
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