Meditation

Read 2 Peter 3:1-9 The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.—Psalm 103:8 (NIV)

As a schoolteacher, I learn a lot as I try to impart knowledge and sound moral training to my young students. The greatest lesson I believe I can share is that of patience. I have developed patience over time as I try to teach particular subjects or topics and my students seem slow to understand.

As children of God, we should remember that the Father has much to teach us. Yet God knows our weaknesses and is patient and loving in teaching us. Jesus was patient with Peter; despite Peter’s failings, Jesus forgave him and gave him the privilege of leadership in God’s kingdom.

Just as teachers and students must share a trusting relationship in order to foster the learning process, it is important for us to know that God cares about us. God helps us to overcome our daily challenges as we grow in our walk with Christ.

Prayer—Dear God, help us to be patient and to trust your care for us as we learn your purpose for us. “Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation” (Luke 11:2-4, NIV). Amen.

Thought for the Day—God is patient with me and encourages me to be patient with others. —Joshua Oladipupo, Nigeria