Psalm 73:26 – My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. (NASB)

Several months ago, I developed a state of extreme fatigue. No matter how many naps I took, I was always tired. It turned out that I had pneumonia. This fact was a blessing in disguise, since it led to the doctors finding out that I had a serious heart condition. An angiogram was administered, which showed two blockages in the vessels of the heart. A long-standing heart murmur showed leakage from the aortic valve. Most of what was going on was a blur to me. I was given the advice to have open heart surgery. The amazing thing was that I had never had chest pains or shortness of breath, which one associates with problems of the heart. However, I proceeded with the surgery and my heart problems were repaired. These facts made me realize that God had given me a miracle.

James 1:17 – Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. (NKJV)

My recovery has not been without difficulty. I have been plagued with impatience at the slowness of it all. One of my inpatient — and impatient — moments came when I realized that I was going to have to learn how to walk again. This difficult task was one of many situations that occurred on a daily basis. How did I cope? I prayed to the Lord and asked Him to grant me the patience to overcome. It has been a step-by-step process. He has helped with each situation. Thank You, Lord!

As Christians, we have a perfect example of patience — in Jesus:

Hebrews 12:2 … fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. (NASB)

Jesus challenges to "run with endurance the race that is set before us", and He will help us, if we ask.

Prayer: Dear Lord, enable us to trust that You will help us to overcome our trials and tribulations. Grant us the patience and strength that is required to see Your plan carried out for our lives. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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