Love is patient. I have had to repent more times than I’d like to admit in trying to put words on paper regarding this powerful definition of love. I’ve decided to go ahead and address this the best way I can right now…cause I’m ready for some Love is kind!
The Greek word for patient is makrothymeō…definitions include:
- to be of a long spirit, not to lose heart
- to persevere patiently and bravely in enduring misfortunes and troubles
- to be patient in bearing the offenses and injuries of others
- to be mild and slow in avenging
- to be longsuffering, slow to anger, slow to punish
I also found this definition of patience…“to endure delay, trouble, opposition, or suffering without being angry, frustrated, or anxious.” and this definition…”Having patience is the ability to wait without becoming anxious or annoyed. Instead of being hasty or impulsive, it is the ability to remain calm. More so being patient is having understanding for a person or situation, and it is being able to endure even through pain or provocation.“
Ummmmmm….WOW!
I’ve tried wielding this Scripture by screaming it at the top of my lungs while I punch pillows. Hey! Don’t judge me…It’s better than punching people, right?
I have discovered a HUGE weakness in my soul…I find it easier to be patient with nonbelievers than I do with those who call themselves Christians. What a struggle….being patient with a Christian who is supposed to be patient with me.
YIKES…this is crazy…and sometimes ugly. How can this be?
Expectations.
I admit I expect more from a Christian. But then, where does that leave me…I’m the one screaming and punching pillows! Sigh!
So…if love is patient, then why am I punching pillows? Because I’m not trusting God.
Do I believe that God is good? Do I believe that He is faithful? Can I accept His timing? Do I believe that He will fulfill all of His promises to me?
I texted a friend and said that I was having a hard time wrapping my mind around this whole patience thing…she texted back and said “think about how far God let you stray knowing you would come running back.” She always gets me with truth like this!
Makes me think of 2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.
God is Love…
Love is patient…
God is patient…
It is who He is.
Psalm 62:5 (KJV) My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him.
Expectation is defined as hope…the thing that I long for…IT IS FROM HIM AND HIM ALONE.
Do I trust HIM?
My prayer is that, as I punch pillows less and less, I would trust Him more and more. I’m getting there…slowly but surely…I’m so thankful that God is patient with me. May that reality drive me to my knees.
How has God refined you in this area?