“Better is the end of a thing than its beginning, and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit,” Ecclesiastes 7:8 ESV. We typically associate patience with our self-control, time-tolerance, and composure while waiting for something; the focus being on us. One of the common Biblical Hebrew words for “patience” is “SAVLANUT.” Its meaning is rooted in the understanding that God is present in every moment. It’s less about how we deal with waiting and is more like: “While you are waiting, take it all in, don’t miss a thing.” When I patiently pay attention, I often see amazing things that I would have hurriedly brushed by. Every moment is full of lessons and blessings that are thinly veiled but easily missed. God is present in every place at all times; therefore, every second is brimming with all that He is. Each twinkle of time is permeated with wisdom, provision, opportunity, life, light, victory, and peace. Lord, help me to see thinly-veiled wonders. Heal my restless haste that I may fully know Your glorious mysteries and marvels.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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