The Fruit of the Spirit is Patience
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience…" (Galatians 5:22)
Today, we explore the fourth component of the fruit of the Spirit - patience. This patience is both toward God and men.
Patience towards God is anchored on a complete trust in His sovereignty that shows in one's ability to endure difficult circumstances, waiting for the fulfillment of God's plans in His own timing.
God's ways are not our ways. Therefore it takes both faith and patience to experience the fulfillment of God's plan for our lives.
"We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised." (Hebrews 6:12)
Consider the lives of Abraham, Joseph, and David, to mention a few. They all received the fulfillment of God's plan for them through patience.
Our fast-paced world today espouses shortcuts which lead us out of God's will.
In the context of human relations, patience is a toleration of the imperfection of people and an appreciation for people's unique way of thinking and behaving.
What patience does is that it gives us space and time to properly assess the nature and consequences of the behavior of people, and to respond appropriately. Patience saves us from hasty conclusions and premature decisions.
Within patience is a willingness to forgive, be sympathetic and understanding. Therefore, without patience, no relationship can thrive. May God help us to cultivate the virtue of patience today!
Remain inspired!
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