Learning to Wait and Endure
Opening Prayer
Lord,
You are patient with us.
Teach us to be patient with others
and with ourselves.
Help us grow slowly and faithfully.
Amen.
Part One
Why Waiting Is Hard
Most of us do not like waiting.
We do not like waiting for:
A turn
An answer
A result
An apology
Something we want
We prefer things to happen quickly.
But life does not always move at our speed.
The Bible reminds us:
“Be patient therefore, brethren…
Be you also patient, and strengthen your hearts.”
Patience is not weakness.
It is strength that remains steady.
Scripture
“Be patient therefore…
strengthen your hearts.”
(James 5:7–8)
Think and Discuss
When is it hardest for you to wait?
What happens inside you when you are impatient?
Why do you think God does not always answer prayers immediately?
Can patience make a person stronger?
Listen carefully without rushing.
Part Two
God Is Patient With Us
God does not hurry.
He allows us time to grow.
He forgives again and again.
He teaches slowly.
He waits for us to turn back to Him.
If God were impatient,
none of us would stand for long.
Because He is patient with us,
we are called to be patient with others.
Patience means:
Not giving up quickly.
Not reacting immediately in anger.
Allowing others time to grow.
It also means being patient with ourselves.
Growth takes time.
Guidance for Adults
Model calm responses when things go wrong.
Children learn patience from example far more than instruction.
Part Three
Growing in Patience
Patience grows through practice.
We can practise patience when we:
Wait without complaining.
Listen fully before responding.
Try again after failing.
Accept that some things take time.
Think of a seed.
It does not grow into a tree in one day.
It grows quietly, slowly, steadily.
The Christian life is like that.
We do not become holy overnight.
We grow through many small, faithful choices.
God’s grace works in hidden ways.
Patience allows grace to take root.
Quiet Reflection
Sit quietly for a moment.
Think of something you are waiting for.
Now say quietly:
“Lord, give me patience.”
Remain in silence together.
Practise This Week
Choose one:
• Wait your turn without interrupting.
• Pause before reacting when annoyed.
• Accept a delay without complaining.
• Pray for patience each morning.
Choose one and keep it steady.
Optional Response
Choose one:
Memory
Repeat slowly:
“Strengthen your hearts.”
Say it three times thoughtfully.
Action
Stand still and count slowly to ten.
Notice how waiting feels.
Say: “I can grow slowly.”
Closing Prayer
Lord,
You are patient and faithful.
Strengthen our hearts.
Help us wait with trust
and grow steadily in goodness.
Amen.
St. Mary's, St. John Bosco and St. Edward's 