When troubles come

Colossians 1:11 says, "God will strengthen you with his own great power so that you will not give up when troubles come, but you will be patient."
For me, that last part never seemed to fit with the first part. When troubles come we need to be patient?? I always just quickly read over that last part, somewhat ignoring the phrase. I am not sure what Paul was thinking when he added that little, "but you will be patient." Then today, it just hit me. I started thinking what trouble looked like: a mouthy co-worker, an upset child, a sick family member, rain on a special day, an intruder, a rude driver. I am sure you get the point and are thinking of your own troubles now. If we are not patient in any of these situations, we could make quite a mess. We could actually make the circumstances deadly. So, instead of resorting to a fast-talking, fix-it mentality, keep quiet and patiently listen. Instead of resorting to racing up the highway trying to get a license plate number or at least cutting off that rude driver before he exits, just let it go and hum a little tune. Road rage is not good for anyone. Lastly, when it is raining on your parade, don't rehearse how wet and disgusting it is and how awful the circumstances are. Focus on problem solving and redeeming the situation. Yes! We need to be patient when trouble comes! Some situations just can't be changed, but our attitude and outlook can. Lord, help me to remember to be patient when I am racing to work tomorrow and that lady in the cute sports car cuts me off and I have to follow a truck for miles on end! Help me to see the opportunity to turn up the radio and sing a jammin' tune!