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A GOOD IMPATIENCE
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1
1 Thessalonians 3:1-2

Philippians 2:4

 

“Wherefore when we

could no longer forbear…”

 

A GOOD IMPATIENCE
 
Generally, the Bible praises patience as a virtue, and warns against making hasty, rash decisions. Yet, there are times when it is good to have what we can call a “good impatience.” It is not the sort of impatience where we become frustrated or angry and start to take foolish, sinful actions. Rather it is a godly yearning that stems from a holy desire; one that results in productive, proactive actions done according to God’s will.
 
Shortly after leaving Thessalonica, Paul was in Berea valiantly attempting to find a way back to Thessalonica (Acts 17:10-15). He was concerned for the faith of this young group of converts that he had left behind. He was eager to return to establish and build them up in their faith. However, because Satan’s hindrances against him had been too difficult to overcome, Paul, when he could “no longer forbear” (1 Thess 3:1), made the difficult decision to send Timothy in his place. Yet, by sending Timothy, it would mean that he would be left alone in Athens, a large foreign city steeped in idolatry. Nonetheless, Paul felt that the Thessalonians’ faith was of the utmost priority and was willing to make that sacrifice for their benefit.
 
This is an example of positive solutions that stem from a good impatience. Paul made the decision because he could “no longer forbear” – meaning he could not endure the waiting and uncertainty any longer. He needed to know how they were and wanted to do something to guide them in their spiritual walk. He was not content to just sit idle and do nothing about it, and he therefore took measures to solve the problem he was facing.
 
We must again note that such good impatience must stem from godly desires and not self-centred or carnal ones. If our purpose is right and godly, then our response will be in line with the will of God. We cannot always just wait for things to happen or think that someone else will have it covered. If we have the right sense of urgency about things, it can be the right catalyst needed to make them happen.
 
THOUGHT: Can good desires sometimes lead to wrong solutions?
PRAYER: Father, may Thou grant me godly desires to seek only after Thy will in this life.

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