by Kimberly Mechling
Galatians 5:22-23 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control….
I have always been a “just get’er done” kind of person. Patience is not one of my stronger virtues. However, God uses my dear husband Ray, whom you could say moves at a different speed than me, to help me grow in the patience area. Ray talked about quitting his job for about two years before the day finally came when he decided he was free to do so. I had been praying for at least that long for him to “just do it” already. I could see the job was harming his health, affecting our marriage, and he dreaded going to work every day. When he told me he had finally given notice I cried tears of joy!
Before that day, I was forced to wait. And wait. I thought it was all perfectly clear what needed to be done but, it was out of my control. It wasn’t my job, or my decision. I couldn’t tell Ray what to do—God could do that.
God in his wisdom knew Ray would be the perfect partner for me as he has patience beyond knowing. Sigh. The actions we take in life do not affect only ourselves. In order to bear with another in love, and keep unity in the Spirit, it may take sacrifice, and in this case, I needed patience.
I got the privilege of getting to know Ray a little better on a men's trip to Chicago a few months ago. We don't always believe it, but we need those "different paced people" to keep us in line some times. Thanks for sharing your story!
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