My biggest flex is that I’m an extremely patient person. But let me be honest; living in Nigeria seriously tests my patience everyday. From the traffic jams to the endless queues, from hearing “hold on, I’m coming” to the classic “tomorrow we go do am,” I must admit I’ve lost my cool a few times but I know this is just an opportunity to grow and let patience be perfected in me. So I’m learning how to re-cultivate a spirit of patience for this next level. In a culture that celebrates speed, pressure, and instant results I still want to represent the culture of the kingdom. I want to be different. I want to be patient
So here’s how I’m learning to embrace a new level of patience, and maybe it’ll encourage you to do the same.
Recognize Patience as Strength, Not Weakness
In this society, waiting is often seen as a waste of time; associating patience with being passive or weak. But the truth is, patience takes strength. It’s the ability to endure discomfort, delay, and even disappointment without losing hope or joy.
“But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” – James 1:4 (KJV)
The more we practice patience, the more we grow — emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
Practice Patience in the Little Things
Sometimes, it’s not the big delays that ruin our day, but the accumulation of small annoyances. Try this:
- Let someone cut in front of you in traffic without getting angry.
- Wait your turn in line without sighing or complaining.
- Listen fully to someone before jumping in with your opinion.
The more we practice patience in the small things, the easier it becomes when life really tests us.
Lean on Faith
Patience is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). It’s not something we can force by willpower alone. We need to stay connected to God through prayer, worship, and the Word. Trusting God’s timing is key.
“Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him.” – Psalm 37:7 (NIV)
When you believe that God is working behind the scenes, you become less frantic and more peaceful — even when things don’t go your way.
Slow Down Your Lifestyle
This culture often makes us feel like if we’re not constantly moving, we’re failing. But sometimes, slowing down is the wisest thing you can do. Take breaks. Rest. Breathe. Every moment doesn’t need to be “productive.”
Even Jesus withdrew from the crowd to rest and pray (Luke 5:16). If our Savior took time to pause, so can we.
Build Emotional Resilience
A lot of impatience comes from unhealed emotions — frustration, fear, anger. Start checking in with yourself:
- What’s really triggering me right now?
- Am I reacting or responding?
Patience doesn’t mean you ignore injustice or tolerate foolishness. It means you respond with wisdom instead of reacting out of frustration.
Final Thoughts
Nigeria may be loud, chaotic, and unpredictable but we don’t have to be. As we cultivate a spirit of patience, we will stand out from the crowd. It gives you peace of mind, improves your relationships, and deepens your walk with God.
We can be a people who hustle, but let’s also be a people who trust God’s timing, remain calm in the storm, and reflect Christ in our attitude.
Your Turn
Are you also learning how to cultivate patience? I’d love to hear your story. Drop a comment below and share one area where you’re choosing patience over pressure.
And if this encouraged you, please share it with a friend, WhatsApp group, or church sister who could use this reminder too. Let’s grow together — one patient step at a time. 💛
Keywords: patience is a virtue, longsuffering, spiritual growth, emotional maturity, Nigerian lifestyle, Christian values, mental health,
