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Galatians 5:22-23 (GNB & KJV)But the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control. There is no law against such things as these. *But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
Did you notice from our texts above that the word patience in the Good News Bible was replaced with the word longsuffering in the King James Version? Patience is the nature of God in us that propels us to endure, persist and persevere in every circumstance, just like God does. It is the ability to bear our circumstances, no matter how long it takes. The Amplified Bible uses both the phrase ‘an even temper’ and the word ‘forbearance’ to expand the meaning of the word patience. Some versions of the Bible use the word ‘leniency’ for patience in our text above. We exercise patience towards God, towards people (especially as a leader) and even towards situations.
Despite how long it was taking for God’s promise of a child to manifest in the life of Abraham, the Bible indicates that he did not stagger at God’s promise. Instead, Abraham remained strong in faith, giving glory to God. In fact, he was fully persuaded that God would perform what He had promised Him, Rom.4:20-21. Beloved, God will also perform what He has promised you. Longsuffering or patience is greatly fuelled by our revelation of the faithfulness of God. Remain steadfast in your faith, child of God. Continue giving glory to God. Maintain a good attitude. The testing of your faith is putting your patience to work (James 1:3-4) and it is building your character in preparation for the manifestation of your desire so keep trusting in God’s great love for you, Rom.5:3-5. As you wait upon God, He will continue to renew your strength, Isa.40:31. Wait upon God by remaining strong in faith. Pray and give God thanks. Keep declaring His Word. Do not lose it. God is able to do just what He said He would do. It is through faith and patience that we inherit the promises of God, Heb.6:12.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the grace You have given me to be patient like You.
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