Patience is one thing we all struggle with.

James 1:2-3, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.”

Col.3:12, “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

James 5:7-8, “Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the LORD's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the LORD's coming is near.” 

Huponene peace, means “steadfastness”, “endurance”.

James 1:2-4, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” 

Makrothumia peace, means “forbearance” or “long suffering”.

Colossians 3:12-14. “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

Patience is a God given restraint.

Patience is the ability to endure hostility and criticism without anger.

Ephesians 4:2, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”

Colossians 3:13, “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”

1 Thessalonians 5:14-15, “And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.”

The greatest example of makrothumia patience is Jesus Himself.

1 Timothy 1:15-17, “Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.”

2 Peter 3:8-9, “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the LORD a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The LORD is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

QUESTIONS 

1. Why do you find it hard to exercise patience?  How quickly do you find yourself becoming annoyed or anxious during difficult situations?
2. Choose one situation that is trying your patience, and consider how you could put your hope in Jesus for that situation. Then ask God to help you.
3. Is there a person or with which people do you need an extra measure of patience, long-suffering, or endurance? Ask God for wisdom in how to walk by the Spirit as it relates to this person or people.