November 12, 2026
The Practice of Patience
Written by Howell Q, a member of the Tethered in Faith community · Talk to a mentor
Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer.
Patience is a virtue that is only developed in the crucible of delay or difficulty. Paul links patience directly to tribulation, suggesting that it’s our struggles that refine our ability to endure.
But we aren't asked to endure with a grumbling spirit. We are called to rejoice in our hope and remain constant in our prayer. Prayer is the tether that keeps our hearts soft and our spirits patient when our circumstances are screaming for immediate resolution.
Pray
Father, waiting is so difficult for me, and I often want to rush Your timeline. Forgive my impatience. Help me to rejoice in the hope I have in You, and give me the grace to remain steadfast in prayer while I wait. Amen.
Reflect & discuss
When you face a delay or tribulation, is your first response to complain or to pray? How can you shift that habit this week?
Bring this to your tether partner or small group this week.