Devotional: Longsuffering

“Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness and longsuffering”

Colossians 3:12

Message:

What does it mean to be longsuffering?

“having or showing patience in spite of troubles, especially those caused by other people”

Those who are longsuffering are strong in character. 

The greek word is “makrothumia” = “long” & “temper” - so literally someone who has a long fuse.

Someone who is able to resist rash reactions.

Having self-restraint when stirred to anger.

Someone who doesn’t surrender to circumstances or is destroyed by challenges.

Those close to us can certainly push our buttons!

God’s nature is to be tolerant, gracious, longsuffering with us and we must be the same with others

We need to forgive our children or those close to us who may not realise how they hurt us.

They are not mature enough to consider their actions.

They will have no idea of the real impact of their behaviour on you.

We all need grow in this fruit if our relationships are going to hold together.

We’re with you and praying for you to be all you can be in His strength.

Point to ponder: 

On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being the best) where would you place your ability to be longsuffering?

Prayer pointer:

“Dear Father, thank you that you are so longsuffering and patient with us. Thank you that whenever we think we can’t be, we know that we’re only prayer away from you helping us to be everything that we need - for life and godliness. Praise your Holy name – and help me! In Jesus name, amen!”