Is there really such a thing as delayed gratification? Our culture sure doesn't seem to think so! We want all of our benefits, blessings, and delights now! In today's world, we don't seem to want to wait for anything! So if there were ever a verse that did NOT match the whims of our "modern" society, this would have to be it: "Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. Notice that none of those phrases is found in a modern advertising slogan. All are, however, the sustaining actions of the great souls who have gone before us. We ignore them at our spiritual peril. We embrace them to follow in that great heritage of faith we see in Hebrews 11:1-40!

Eternal God, please help me have the patience and faithfulness to let you fully form my character and develop the spiritual wisdom that my world lacks and that I so much need. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.