One of the godly characteristics from the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) is “longsuffering” which is translated as “patience”. When we think of patience, we often associate it with self-control, or restraint while waiting. But the patience listed in the fruit of the Spirit has a different meaning. It comes from the Greek word makrothumia and means forbearance or longsuffering. It’s not the patience we need while sitting in traffic, a phone call from the doctor, or our long workday to end. It’s the ability to bear ongoing hardships in anticipation of future relief from God. It’s enduring suffering without complaining. It’s being slow to anger while waiting on God to provide comfort.

Patience in the fruit of the Spirit is anchored to God and to Jesus Christ. It can only be possessed through the power and work of the Holy Spirit. As believers we are to be longsuffering while the Spirit produces makrothumia patience in us, making us more christlike. This gives us inner strength and self-control to endure difficulties with grace. Because it is part of his character, God is the source of longsuffering and is patient with sinners. Psalm 86:15 (ESV) tells us, “But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” God’s attribute of patience is displayed in us as we obey the Holy Spirit who lives within us.

Praise

Praise God that his patience leads us to repentance. “Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4, ESV)

Examine the Scriptures

Why is having patience important?

The scriptures tell us it is to be exhibited by all believers. “…with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,” (Ephesians 4:2, ESV)

What can I do when I feel agitated?

Replace agitation with peace of Christ. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27, ESV)

What can I do when I feel discouraged?

Replace discouragement with hope and praise in the Lord. “Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation ⁶ and my God.” (Psalm 42:5, ESV)

What can I do when I want to seek revenge?

We are not to revenge ourselves, but to love others. “Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” (Romans 12:19, ESV)

Pray

Father God,

I rejoice in your love and am thankful that it is displayed in your patience with me. Father, help me to be longsuffering as you are. May your Spirit teach me to be patient, willing to wait, slow to anger and slow to seek revenge. The world tells me that I am entitled to have my way and to get everything instantly, but your Word says, “wait for everything patiently.” My spirit longs to follow your ways and not the ways of the world. Lord, I pray for the grace to be more patient with my family, with others, and most importantly, with you. 

In Jesus’ name,

Amen.

@2024, Terri Sherrow