VITAL SIGNS                                                                      EAST BAY FELLOWSHIP

(Series, #4)                                                                                           September 25, 2005

PATIENCE

TEXT: 1 Tim. 1:15-16

INTRODUCTION

· An article in USA Today 5 years ago described America as an “angry nation” full of “short tempered people”.

1) THE OPPOSITE OF PATIENCE IS ANGER

· The word for “patience” used here comes from two words in the original language of the Bible: long and temper.

· “And he passed in front of Moses proclaiming, ‘The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness…”   Ex. 34:6 (NIV)

2) THE SOURCE OF PATIENCE IS GOD’S COMPASSION

· Paul uses two very important phrases that reveal his source for patience:

a. “Shown mercy”

      b. “Unlimited Patience”

3) THE EXAMPLE OF PATIENCE IS MY LIFE

· The Holy Spirit works His patience into our lives as I:

a. Keep thanking God for His patience with me

b. Keep the deck clear of frustrations

“A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.”   Prov. 19:11 (NIV)

c. Keep a record of learning experiences

d. Keep at least a modicum of accountability in place

CONCLUSION

· “The end of a matter is better than its beginning, and patience is better than pride.”   Ecc. 7:8 (NIV)