Many of us know that one of the most important fruits of the Spirit is patience. But knowing that patience is important, and actually having it are two very different experiences. What is patience, how does it benefit us as Christians, and how do we practice it in a meaningful way? Let’s talk about it:
Galatians 5:22-23 tells us, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” We want to focus on what it means to hold your temper, and why this is something we should be doing all the time.
One of the most important fruits of the Spirit is patience. But why do we need it, and how do we practice patience? Share on XWhat is Patience?
The dictionary defines patience as, “The capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset.” That sums up patience as a virtue fairly well, but what does the original greek in Galatians translate to?
Well, according to GotQuestions.org, two different words translate to the act of patience used in the New Testament. The first one, Hupomonē, translates to something like “a remaining behind” or “steadfastness”. This isn’t the word used in Galatians, so let’s look at what that second word means.
The second greek word is makrothumia. This word translates to “long-suffering” or what we know as patience. This word is what Paul used in the infamous “fruit of the Spirit” verse. So, why is “long-suffering” one of the fruits we need to cultivate as Christians?
Benefits of Patience
For one, there are a lot of benefits to this quality. Being patient with your loved ones allows you to take a step back, and exercise empathy for them and their situation. Patience also leads to more fulfilling relationships which in turn yields a high capacity to love others the way Jesus told us to.
Exercising this emotional muscle is something that is not only good for those around you, but it is also good for your mental health. There was a study in 2007 that proposed that people who are more patient have fewer issues with depression and negative emotions. This is likely because these people are better equipped to deal with disappointment, stress, and upsetting situations.
Ways to Practice This Fruit of the Spirit
One of the best ways to develop better patience is by recognizing it as a test of endurance. Lean on the Lord in those times when you feel as though you cannot continue. His endurance is enough for us all.
Finally, James 1:3-4 says, “Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
With that in mind, sometimes the best way to practice patience is to go through trials that require you to exercise it. The more you practice, the better you will get at it.
ORBC Can Help
We hope this has been helpful to you. If you have any questions about this fruit of the Spirit or other topics related to Christianity, don’t hesitate to contact us! We would love to help.