Have Patience 2

Hello Everyone,

The Greek word is makrothumia. Translated as patience, long-suffering, or forbearance, it is a compound word consisting of makros (long or big) and thumia (temper).

It literally means having a "long fuse" as opposed instead of being short/quick tempered.

In non-biblical Greek, the word expresses the idea of passivity or resignation in the face of overwhelming difficulties or problems that cannot be changed.

It also brings with it the idea of being stubbornly persistent even though the going gets tougher and tougher.

Biblical use of the word makrothumia does not include the idea of passivity or resignation.

For the child of God, it is not just a matter of gritting your teeth and enduring some pain or suffering.

In the Scriptures, makrothumia is used for people who are being patient with people rather than with things or events.

A commentary writer (Barclay) says:

‘It’s the grace of the person who could revenge a wrong but does not”.

             

It’s the long-suffering that endures injuries and evil deeds without being provoked to anger or revenge.

It’s a steadfastness of soul that is tempted to "right a wrong" or "even the score" with someone, but choosing not to do so.

·        It seems patience is needed most when we feel least likely to want to exercise it.

·        Our greatest need for patience is at the low point of our spiritual life when we "cling to God, even when we do not feel that God is near."

·        Patience is the tenacity that the Christian’s faith holds to the promises of God even though he may feel more like the conquered, instead of the conqueror.

Greater Things Are Still To Come!