God’s Extreme Makeover: Part 3

Being attractive without having to look good—Patience

But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)

“Impatience Triggers”

RELATIONSHIPS

LIFE CIRCUMSTANCES

STUPIDITY

The Picture

Patience is…“Having a long fuse…” & “Hanging in there…”

…Patience is better than pride. Don't be quick-tempered, for anger is the friend of fools. Ecclesiastes 7:8-9 (NLT) 

You, too, must be patient. And take courage, for the coming of the Lord is near. James 5:8 (NLT)

Patience reflects love

Love is patient…1 Corinthians 13:4 (NLT)

Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love. Ephesians 4:2 (NLT) 

Patience leads to spiritual growth

For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready for anything. James 1:3-4 (NLT) 

Patience is rewarded

God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. James 1:12 (NLT)

The Problem

PACE

PRIDE

EXPECTATIONS

The Plan

1. Reflect before RESPONDING

Those who control their anger have great understanding… Proverbs 14:29 (NLT) 

2. Respond with PRAYER

Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6 (NLT) 

3. Pray for HIS KINGDOM to replace yours

Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be honored. May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done here on earth, just as it is in heaven.

Matthew 6:9-10 (NLT)

…and he will give you all you need from day to day if you live for him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern. Matthew 6:33 (NLT)

The Lord…is being patient for your sake. 2 Peter 3:9 (NLT) 

You’ve got a choice; react when triggered and cause PAIN or respond with patience cause CHANGE.