How is longsuffering exhibited in our lives?
1. Longsuffering sees God's hand in affliction, and so is quieted under them.
“And he said: "Naked I came from my mother's womb, And naked shall I return there. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; Blessed be the name of the LORD." (Job 1:21 NKJV)
2. Concerning the fulfillment of God's promises.
“And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah's womb. (20) He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God, (21) and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform. (22) And therefore, "it was accounted to him for righteousness." (Romans 4:19-22 NKJV)
Abraham patiently waited for God’s promise.
3. In respect of patient perseverance in well-doing.
“For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. (18) For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit.” (1 Peter 3:17-18 NKJV)
4. In bearing the infirmities of the brethren.
“We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves. (2) Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification. (3) For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, "The reproaches of those who reproached You fell on Me." (Romans 15:1-3 NKJV)
Are you bearing with the weakness of others?
5. To bear, moreover, the unjust suspicion of others.
“Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; (13) but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. (14) If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.” (1 Peter 4:12-14 NKJV)
“And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: "My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; (6) For whom the LORD loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives." (Hebrews 12:5-6 NKJV)
Patience with God’s heavy hand.
5. Are you displaying this kind of longsuffering? Are you quietly thankful to see God's hand working in your life – both good and bad?
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