Topic: How to Be Patient with People’s Progress [RICK WARREN Devotional 3 June  2022]

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How to Be Patient with People’s Progress

“I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.”

Philippians 1:6 (NLT)

When my kids were little, they would bring pictures to me that they had drawn and say, “What do you think of this, Daddy?” I would tell them, “That’s perfect! It looks great.” When I told them it was perfect, I didn’t mean that it was a Picasso. I loved what they had created because it was perfect for that stage in their lives.

God doesn’t wait until you’re mature for him to start loving you. He doesn’t wait for you to clean up or straighten up to think you’re good enough for his love.

You shouldn’t do that with others, either. You’ve got to love them, warts and all. You’ve got to be patient with their progress. 

The Apostle Paul is a great example in this: “I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns” (Philippians 1:6 NLT). He knew God was doing a good, long work in the lives of the people in the Philippian church, and he was patient with their progress.

Why is that so important to your happiness? If you insist on perfection in people, you’re going to be miserable the rest of your life. If you’re always expecting perfection in people before you can enjoy them, then you’re never going to be happy, because nobody’s perfect—especially you.

Also Read: Open Heaven 3 June  2022 Daily Devotional By Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Topic: LOVE FOREWARNS

Here’s a little happiness hint: If you want to have happier and healthier relationships, then celebrate how far people have come rather than judging them for how far they still have to go. You’ve got to be patient with people’s progress.

To be able to celebrate people instead of judging them for their imperfections, you’ll have to be patient. And the key to patience is love.

Paul says in the next verse, “It is right that I should feel as I do about all of you, for you have a special place in my heart” (Philippians 1:7 NLT).

In my heart: This is the real key to happiness. When you love and celebrate people and focus on their steps forward, then you’re going to build healthy, happy relationships.

Talk It Over

• What effect does it have on you when your friends celebrate your success?
• How does remembering God’s love for you help you love others well?
• If you don’t consider yourself a patient person, what are some ways you can cultivate this fruit of the Spirit in your life?

You can rely on God’s promise of salvation

Your sin separates you from God, and there’s nothing you can do to make things right. So you need someone to save you from your sins and make you acceptable to God.

That’s why God sent Jesus. Jesus’ death on the cross paid for every wrong you’ve ever done or will do. Jesus made it possible for you to have a relationship with God the Father. The Bible says, “We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are” (Romans 3:22 NLT).

You can start your journey with Jesus by believing in him and confessing your sins. If you’re ready to surrender your life to Jesus Christ, start by praying this simple prayer: “Dear God, I know I’m a sinner, and I ask for your forgiveness. I believe Jesus Christ is Your Son. I believe that he died for my sin and that you raised him to life. I want to trust him as my Savior and follow him as Lord from this day forward. Guide my life and help me to do your will. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”

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