"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
(Galatians 5:22-23)
We live in a fast-paced, have-it-right-now society. Waiting for almost anything is anathema to us! Whether we’re in line for drive-thru banking or standing in front of the microwave, few among us have mastered the art of patience.
Take a look at two people who exemplify this virtue. Simeon and Anna figure into the Christmas story because they both had long been waiting for the Messiah promised in Old Testament prophecies. Widowed after only seven years of marriage, Anna committed the remainder of her life (more than 84 years) to God’s service and daily prayer in the temple. Simeon, likewise well along in years and devout in prayerful faith, had been promised he would not die until he had seen God’s Anointed One.
Both were present when Mary and Joseph brought Jesus into the temple to be circumcised. Imagine their joy! God rewarded the patience of Simeon and Anna, and He will do that for you, too. His greatest promise of eternal life for you is ahead. Be patient. He is faithful, and His timing is always perfect!
Scripture Focus
Luke 2:22-38
Insight
Waiting can be hard work... but God never fails to do what he promises.
Bible In A Year
- Hosea 4-6
- Proverbs 12
- James 4-5