Christ in Your Life

Patience-Understanding

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5)

One fall, I attended my granddaughter’s 4-H horse show at their county fair. I was sitting alone in the bleacher section of the indoor arena, but soon other spectators joined me in the stands.

As we were all waiting patiently for the horse classes to start, the people around me were talking excessively. I am a person who appreciates quiet, so I was uneasy with all the racket. It seemed they knew each other. I felt uncomfortable as they encroached upon my personal space. I must admit, I began to think they were very rude and inconsiderate of others around them.

The 4-H classes started. At the beginning of one of the classes, the director of the 4-H club took the microphone and spoke. She spoke of a young girl who would be riding in the next class. She stated this was the first year this young girl participated in the 4-H equestrian events. She went on to tell us the young girl’s story. A couple of years earlier, she was diagnosed with a brain tumor and she has gone through two major surgeries, as well as much rehabilitation. As she regained strength, she began riding her horse. Recently, they found the tumor had grown back and she would have her third surgery in a couple of weeks. The director spoke of the girl’s determination and courage. The director announced she would be riding alone. The rest of the class would come in and join her.

As class started, the young girl came into the arena with her horse and did a short performance. The rest of the class entered the arena. The people around me had quieted down. I also noted tears in many of their eyes. I realized the people around me were this girl’s family and friends. I felt sick, absolutely disgusted with myself for my thoughts and actions before her performance. Suddenly, everything changed. I changed.

Patience replaced impatience. Why? Because patience always hitches a ride with understanding. I had no idea these people were here supporting this young lady and her accomplishments. I saw a loud, annoying group of individuals with no consideration for those around them. Not until the truer picture unfolded did I understand their excitement. Without the broader view of what was to come, I was critical. And I judged them.

From this time on I ask God, “Am I seeing the whole picture or is there more to a situation than what I see?” I continue to pray for God to help me be more understanding and patient when I do not have a complete view of any circumstance. Without a larger view, we cannot understand. We cannot always see the big picture. God does. We should remember to ask ourselves, “Is there more to this situation?” and then be more patient. “Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.” (Proverbs 11:12)

Before you blow up, listen up. Before you strike out, tune in.