I had very little patience for nonsense and selfish people today. While out getting groceries while driving, I had someone go in front of me with their car at a time where they should have waited. I had to share the store with someone with a child throwing a fit for seemingly not getting their way and the parent not properly addressing the issue. This went on far longer than it should have. This made for quite the distraction for my task at hand. One of the store workers on the phone almost backed right into me as she didn’t care that I was there and left with no apology. Oh, my patience was being tested. I just wanted to get my groceries, pay and get home! Now, I did not say a word and I kept my annoyances to myself. But I was frustrated and annoyed. Ultimately, I was able to pay and go home with my groceries. I am grateful that I made it home safely and I am grateful for God’s provisions. Though I definitely needed a time out for a bit. Friend, people will frustrate us sometimes, for different reasons. We may frustrate them at times. I love all the people that annoyed me today and I don’t wish them any ill will. I just need some time to just breathe, pray for them in their actions, to work on my patience and know that just as I need grace, I too must offer it. God sees everything and He knows the whole picture. We are instructed to be kind, godly and loving. In the easy times and yes, even in the not so easy times. God will address it as He sees fit, may we step back and let Him. When we are struggling with our patience with others, may we go to God whom will help us. We can’t always change situations or others behavior, but we can choose how we react to it. May it be a Christ-like reaction. I am sitting writing this not just to remind you my friend, but myself too. I pray, take a deep breath and let God take over.

Erin Fitts-Brower

Be kind and give it to God

Psalm 37:7-8 NIV

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.

Colossians 3:12-13 NIV

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.