Patience and Long-Suffering

Summary

We have a tendency to think and act in the short term. In our marriages, jobs, and other aspects of life we have a tendency to react to situations to correct them quickly even if that means being abrasive or hurtful because it gets us the immediate results we want. God calls us to a better way when he tells us that we are to be patient and long-suffering. When we begin to respond to our spouse and children with patience  we will begin to see relationships that blossom and attitudes and actions that are more loving. The long-term health of any relationship rests on our ability to practice patience and long-suffering.

Scripture Reference

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. –Galatians 5:22-23

Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: –Romans 15:5

But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. –1 Timothy 6:11

That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. –Titus 2:2

With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. –Ephesians 4:2-3

And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. –Ephesians 6:4