The Posture of Patience

The Posture of Patience

by Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes

 

“Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near”

(James 5:7, NIV).

 

My mother worked as a nurse during my childhood, and therefore paid careful attention to her five children’s health. Once, she concluded we had bad posture. Believing this issue could create long-term issues, she gave us lessons in achieving and maintaining correct poise. First, she modeled good stature. Next, she instituted daily practice. We’d balance books on our heads while walking a straight line. Last, she tested us. If we didn’t keep our necks erect and our shoulders rolled back, we’d have to start over. This entire process entailed the following three steps: an example, practice, and a test.

I now see God as our perfect parent who wants us to develop the healthy poise of patience regarding our purpose as writers. Most of us struggle with patience at various stages of our writing journeys. We can improve our stature in faith by positioning ourselves and our work for God’s purpose as we wait on him.

Patience is difficult for me, especially in the area of my passion—writing. But like my mom’s posture plan, God’s word has taught me three steps to develop a posture of patience:

• Examine and emulate those who model patience in the Bible, as found in Luke 21:19 (NKJV) where God tells us “By your patience possess your souls.”
• Practice patience in all seasons, like the farmer in James 5:7.
• Embrace testing. Our strength and growth potential show through when we face trials. James 2:4 (NKJV) reminds us that the “testing of our faith produces patience.”

Lord, we know patience is an important virtue for us as Christians. Help us turn our trials into opportunities to witness for the glory of God through our words. Empower us, Lord, to handle these tests righteously and to stand as writers with the poise of patient faithfulness. Amen.

 

 

 

Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes is a counselor, consultant, author, and owns an event-planning business. Her work in art/writing are distinguished by awards including the New York Mayor’s Contribution to the Arts, Outstanding Resident Artist of Arizona and the Foundations Awards at the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writer’s Conference.  Katherine loves speaking to groups, delivering messages with quick wit and real-life stories. Connect with her at https://godslittleblackdress.com/ or https://www.amazon.com/Gods-Little-Black-Dress-Women/dp/1365056163