Romans chapter 9 verses 22-24 (NIV)
What if God, although choosing to show his wrath and make his power known, bore with great patience the objects of his wrath—prepared for destruction? What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory — even us, whom he also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles?
We know that we don’t deserve the goodness and grace of God that Christ died to give us. We deserved the wrath and just judgement of God. We still sin and yet He remains patient with us and pours out His love towards us. He wants His glory to be seen in us, in order that others might be drawn to Him.
Yet how often do we become impatient when we are hurt or let down by someone, especially when it’s not for the first time. I think that God expects us to bear this too with patience in order that in His time, the one who has hurt us will see the love of God in us and turn to Him. So if we get frustrated in such circumstances, even if we feel justified in doing so, let’s remember that God would be justified in pouring out His wrath on us. Jesus took that wrath on Himself. Maybe if we take time to remember that we will not feel so frustrated next time.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for your patience and forbearance. Help me to emulate that in my behaviour towards others, so that Your light may be seen in me. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.