Patience

The word patience (Greek macrothumia) means to be long-tempered i.e. the opposite of short-tempered! We are to be “slow to anger” (Jas.1:19). Sometimes anger is appropriate (Mark 3:5), but it must be controlled, in contrast to “fits of rage” (Gal.5:20). As always, this fruit of the Spirit reflects God’s own nature. He is patient with us despite our sin (2 Pet.3:9; Rom.2:4). Paul’s own story is an example of Christ’s “unlimited patience” with sinners (1 Tim.1:16).

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This aspect of God’s character is produced in us by the Holy Spirit, who teaches us to be forbearing towards circumstances and people alike. A patient person has “great understanding”, can “mend quarrels”, has “self-control” and “overlooks offences” (Prov.14:29; 15:18; 16:32; 19:11). We need to “be patient, bearing with one another in love” (Eph.4:2).

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So patience is an aspect of love (1 Cor.13:4), and, like love, it is the Spirit’s fruit in us. But, as God’s people, we co-operate in that cultivation by actively looking to clothe ourselves with patience (Col.3:12-13). In trying circumstances – and with trying people – keep your eyes on Jesus and the patience he showed as he went to the cross (Heb.12:2; Jas.1:2-4).