But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. – Galatians 5:22-23
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. – Romans 12:12
A hot-tempered man stirs up strife, but he who is slow to anger quiets contention. – Proverbs 15:18
For the Gift of Patience
Lord, as I age
I find my emotions getting the better of me
more and more I find myself
losing patience with family
becoming frustrated with friends
and more often than not
impolite to others
I am weary and regretful
unaccomplished
and running out of time
disappointed in who I have become
the sameness of my life
drags on and on
and I am lost
no longer able to affect change
and so I lash out
Lord, help me to see clearly
that there is purpose in what I do
ordinary as it may seem
that those around me
are Your children
and that we are here for each other
grant me patience and mercy
empathy and understanding
help me to listen with my heart
and speak with Your voice
blessing everyone I meet
showing forbearance in times of strife
helping others in their times of need
catching my sisters and brothers when they stumble
help me to put aside
my pride, my faults, my insecurities
to stand firm for those who need me
to value and respect everyone
for we are all Your children
Amen
Copyright 2026 by Jose Antonio Ponce