Patience: A Byproduct of Wisdom

Proverbs 19:11“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.”

                  Solomon is said to be the wisest man to ever walk the earth. God gave him his wisdom because of his unselfish request; for the wisdom and knowledge to rule the people of Israel justly and without malice, with wisdom and discernment. ^{[1 Kings 3:1-15]} This so impressed the Lord that he gave him both what he asked for and the riches and material wealth he didn’t ask for. Solomon’s heart was after God. His words in the Book of Proverbs should be heeded because of his God given wisdom.

                  Patience is a godly trait that can be given in great measure if asked for. That is not to say that non-Christians can’t be patient, but believers in Christ often face a different type of trial or set of circumstances that will tear at the undercarriage of their faith if allowed. It’s at those times that we are to be as the prophet Isaiah declares: “Therefore have I set my face like flint, and I know I will not be put to shame.” ^{[Isaiah 50:7]}. In this case Isaiah was speaking of the Messiah. Setting his face like flint means he will not shrink back from His mission, despite severe suffering, opposition, and humiliation. He also never held any offence against his perpetrators. 

Christ’s patience was impeccable and worthy of being emulated. In the face of many obstacles, we need to embrace the contemporary phrase; “Get on your knees and fight like a man.” It is thru prayer that mountains can be moved. The wise man will recognize that patience and not impudence is the route to take with those who would seek to incite you to say or do something unbecoming of a Christian. If you are lacking wisdom, seek it thru prayer. The Holy Spirit will dispense it as he wills to help us exhibit more Christ-like behavior. Patience thru wisdom is a key lesson for a believer to learn this side of heaven. God is in control and he absolutely knows what he’s doing. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

 

Proverbs 1:5 “…let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance…”.

Proverbs 14:29 “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.”

Proverbs 16:32 “Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city.”