Ever wonder why some people warn others not to pray for patience? It is the first attribute of love mentioned in Paul’s first letter to Corinth.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails… — 1 Corintians 13:4-8
I believe there is a divine reason that it is the first attribute. Just as there is a reason for the order of the Ten Commandments, the prioritize structure of our Lord’s Prayer, and the organization of the Sermon on the Mount.
When we fervently pray for patience, our Heavenly Father puts things in motion so that we have increased opportunities to exercise patience. Traffic jams, late appointments, desired outcomes delayed for reasons uncontrolled by our strength and planning. These can produce an anxious, frustrated, and even angry attitude. These impatient feelings and emotions are contrary to Paul’s divine definition of love. Where are kindness, politeness, and perseverance?
For us to love like Jesus, “patience” must be an unshakeable attribute deeply-rooted in our heart, mind, and soul. For any attribute to truly become part of the integrity of our character, it must be regularly exercised. Here’s what King David said in Psalm 37:
7) Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. 8) Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil.