Patience

God has really been teaching me patience lately -- it's in somewhat minor ways but it just keeps happening. Generally, I consider myself a relatively patient person. I have a pretty high tolerance for "annoying" people and I like doing tedious things usually.

But every time an experiment fails it wears on me just a little bit more.

And lately, when people are talking to me I get irritated. I don't want to ignore someone, even if they're talking about something unimportant, frivolous  or boring... but sometimes I just don't have the mental energy to be fully present in a conversation. And then I get annoyed at them, for talking to me. 

I do think there are some external factors -- not getting enough sleep and an increased stressed level --- but that's not an excuse to be a jerk (or even just have jerkish thoughts) towards other people. 

And when it comes to personal impatience, it's crazy how such a tiny thing...like an experiment not working.... can put me in a bad mood. I mean.. really ...these are first world problems. 

I've been reflecting on what my Biblical response and thought process should be regarding the impatience in my life. 

1. Pray for God's Love, Power, and Perspective:  As much as I want to be perfect, I'm not, and never will be. But God has infinite resources for his children that they might love people more deeply and see the world as he does. As for the rest, I'll accept grace.

2. See People As People that God Loves: Even in professional relationships, people are people, not something to be used, ignored, or devalued. I want to consider every interaction sacred --- as an opportunity to show love and grace. As an opportunity to live the gospel.

3. Look at the World with an Eternal Perspective: Asking, "Will this matter in a week from now? A year from now? Fifty years from now? In eternity?"  can be helpful in dealing with those simple everyday problems.

4. Grow. When I'm being stretched and challenged, I often thank God because I know that it is required for growth. With joy, I wonder what challenges God is preparing me for in the future. And when the opportunity arises to stand firm in a trial and praise the Lord, I want to be ready.