The Fruit Of The Spirit Is....Patience

Greek word 'makrothumia' is a combination of two words - 'makros' (long) and 'thumos' (temper).
Literally means to have a long temper. The KJV translates it as 'long suffering'
Dictionary definition - bearing pains or trials calmly or without complaint; manifesting forbearance under provocation or strain; steadfast despite opposition, difficulty or adversity.

Examples of the word makrothumia in the NT

a) Avoidance of judgemental attitudes. Romans 2:4
b) To help overcome opposition and suffering. 2Cor 6:6
c) To help build unity in the body of Christ. Eph 4:2
d) Encourage perseverance in the things of God. 2Tim 4:2
e) Demonstrating God's attitude towards sinful man. 1Tim 1: 15-16

You cannot learn patience from the world

It's the Fruit of the Holy Spirit.
The world wants 'more, more, more' and it wants it 'now, now, now'
Patience is not simply waiting eg in a queue at a bank or a kid waiting for Christmas.
We don't always get what we want.

Practical points relating to patience

a) We need to practice patience.
Patience isn't tested by those we get on with
b) Recognise we grow in patience.
It's a fruit. Look back - situations that once caused us to lose our temper, now we don't. We have grown.
c) Remember we're all human.
Sometimes that becomes an excuse, but in balance it's true.
d) Impatience is self-centredness.

Stewart Bloor

www.sicm.org