"We who are powerful need to be patient with the weakness of those who don't have power, and not please ourselves." Romans 15:1 (CEB)
Moose hunting requires a hunter to be patient and to not be discouraged. It is about wind direction, body scent, camouflage, how to push a moose out of the bush and, most of all, have a careful aim.
Moose are very large animals and have very thick hides, so if you are going to harvest a moose, you need to make sure that your kill shot is very accurate. But the most important thing in harvesting a moose is patience.
The Scripture verse above (Romans 15:1) reminds us to be patient with others. It would be easy to be patient if everyone did everything according to your plans. The true test God has given you is being patient with those who you find challenging.
Patience creates perseverance. We always want to get things done quickly, but we all know that when we start rushing anything in life, it never works. We are probably doing more damage in anything we are trying to achieve.
We know who is always in control and always has patience with us, and his name is Jesus. He is very powerful over everything to the weakness that we represent. If you want to learn patience, learn from the Teacher of patience.
He never gives up on us. He doesn't rush us to achieve what He feels is important to our lives. He would be a good moose hunting partner because He can teach us the skill of patience that we need daily in our lives. It is pleasing to Him to know that we use Him as our example to slow down when we are in a hurry trying to be successful. Patience is a virtue.
Kirby James is from the Shackan Band of Nlaka'pamux Nation in British Columbia. He is a former social worker, now serving as pastor of New Life Fellowship in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan.
