Joyce Meyer Sermon : Be Patient with Yourself (Pt 1 & 2) :
Introduction: The Journey to Transformation Takes Time
In this inspiring two-part message titled “Be Patient with Yourself,” Joyce Meyer delivers a deeply needed word in today’s high-pressure world. Many of us are striving to be better Christians, better spouses, better parents, or better in our careers—but we often grow frustrated when progress feels slow or when we repeat the same old mistakes.
Joyce reminds us that God is not in a hurry, and He’s certainly not finished with us yet. The key is learning to be patient with the process—and most importantly, to be patient with ourselves as we grow.
“You’re on your way to victory. Don’t give up on yourself, because God hasn’t.”
1. Spiritual Growth Is a Process, Not a Destination
Joyce begins by emphasizing that spiritual maturity doesn’t happen overnight. Just as a tree takes time to grow roots and bear fruit, so our spiritual walk is a gradual transformation.
“God changes us little by little. If we get impatient with that, we risk discouragement and quitting altogether.”
She draws from Philippians 1:6 (AMP):
“I am convinced and confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will [continue to] perfect and complete it until the day of Christ Jesus.”
This verse is a promise that God is committed to your growth, even when you feel stuck, frustrated, or imperfect.
2. Give Yourself the Same Grace God Gives You
One of the most powerful truths Joyce Meyer shares is this: God doesn’t expect perfection—He desires progression. But often, we’re our own worst critics.
We rehearse our failures, compare ourselves to others, and live under guilt and shame. Joyce encourages believers to treat themselves with the same grace they offer others.
“You wouldn’t talk to your best friend the way you talk to yourself.”
She points out that self-condemnation only delays growth, while grace empowers it. God sees your heart, your effort, and your desire to grow—and that matters more than perfection.
3. Beware of the Trap of Comparison
In both parts of the sermon, Joyce stresses that comparing yourself to others is one of the fastest ways to lose patience with yourself.
Each of us is on a different journey with God, and your progress may not look like someone else’s. Some people seem to overcome habits quickly, while others take years. That’s okay.
“You’re not in a race with anyone else. You’re in a relationship with God.”
She references Galatians 6:4 (NIV):
“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else.”
4. Progress Over Perfection
Joyce passionately teaches that God celebrates progress. If you’ve made even a small improvement, rejoice in that! Maybe you didn’t lose your temper today. Maybe you read your Bible two days in a row. Maybe you forgave someone who hurt you.
“You may not be where you want to be, but thank God you’re not where you used to be.”
Joyce reminds us that God is pleased with every step forward. He’s the one doing the work in us through His Spirit, and He knows how to finish what He started.
5. Embrace God’s Timing, Not Your Own
Part of being patient with yourself is trusting God’s perfect timing. Joyce explains that many of us get discouraged because we set deadlines on our growth or breakthrough. When we don’t meet those expectations, we feel like failures.
But Joyce encourages us to let go of the calendar and trust the Creator.
“God is never late, but He’s also rarely early.”
She reminds us of Ecclesiastes 3:11:
“He has made everything beautiful in its time…”
There’s beauty and purpose in the waiting. Growth that lasts is often slow, steady, and deeply rooted.
6. You’re a Work in Progress—And That’s Okay
Joyce shares from her personal journey of struggles, flaws, and years of slow transformation. She admits that she still makes mistakes, but she no longer lets them define her.
“I’m not where I want to be, but I’m enjoying the journey.”
That joy comes from learning to love yourself along the way, to accept that you’re human, and to trust that God is more patient with you than you are with yourself.
7. The Role of God’s Word in Growth
In part 2 of the sermon, Joyce encourages believers to stay grounded in the Word of God, even when they don’t feel like they’re growing. The Word is alive, and it works in our hearts—even when we don’t see immediate results.
She recommends meditating on scriptures that reinforce God’s grace and patience, such as:
Romans 8:1 – “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
Reading the Bible regularly, even in small doses, renews our minds and fuels our transformation.
8. Celebrate Small Victories
A major theme in both parts of Joyce’s teaching is this: celebrate the small wins. Too often, we overlook our progress because we’re focused on how far we still need to go.
“Start applauding yourself for every small victory. Heaven is already cheering you on.”
Whether it’s resisting temptation, praying instead of worrying, or choosing forgiveness—each step forward is a miracle in motion.
Conclusion: God Is Not Done With You
Joyce Meyer’s message, “Be Patient with Yourself,” is a powerful reminder that you’re not meant to walk this Christian life perfectly—but faithfully. God is working in you, through you, and for you—even when you don’t feel it.
“You may stumble, but don’t stop. You may fall, but don’t quit. Keep walking forward in grace.”
Be patient with yourself. Speak kindly to yourself. Trust the process, and trust the God who is lovingly shaping you every day.
A Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your grace and mercy that cover me daily. Help me to be patient with myself as You work in me. Teach me to trust Your timing and to celebrate every step of progress. I believe You are changing me from the inside out, and I will not give up. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Credit : Joyce Meyer Ministries