Do you ever feel like you’ve finally learned your lesson about a particular subject, only to realize that you haven’t truly “arrived” at all? I used to believe I was a more patient person, but today, I found myself in a massive traffic jam caused by an accident. Naturally, I had an appointment and was late. It’s always surprising to me to witness my own obvious shortcomings firsthand. Can you relate? What is it for you?
One of the great misconceptions of the Christian life is that maturity means we eventually outgrow our struggles. Scripture paints a different picture. God often allows everyday inconveniences, interruptions, and disappointments to expose what is still lurking beneath the surface. A traffic jam didn’t create my impatience—it simply revealed it. In that moment, I was reminded that “growing up in Christ” is less about arriving at perfection and more about continually surrendering to the One who is perfect.
The encouraging news is that God doesn’t expose our weaknesses to discourage us but to transform us. In James 1:2-4, he reminds us to “consider it pure joy” when we face trials because they produce perseverance. Every interruption becomes an invitation to trust Him a little more. So instead of asking, “Why am I still struggling with this?” Here’s the better question: “Lord, what are You teaching me today?” Thankfully, He is patient with us—even when we aren’t.