Topical Encyclopedia Patience is a virtue that is highly commended throughout the Scriptures, reflecting a steadfastness and endurance in the face of trials and tribulations. It is an essential aspect of Christian character, demonstrating trust in God's timing and sovereignty.Old Testament Insights In the Old Testament, patience is often associated with waiting on the Lord and trusting in His promises. The psalmist declares, "Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD" (Psalm 27:14). This verse emphasizes the strength and courage required to remain patient, highlighting the active nature of waiting on God. The account of Job is a profound example of patience in suffering. Despite losing his wealth, health, and family, Job remains steadfast in his faith. James 5:11 commends Job's endurance: "See how blessed we consider those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen the outcome from the Lord. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy" . New Testament Teachings In the New Testament, patience is a fruit of the Spirit, as outlined in Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control" . This passage underscores patience as a divine attribute that believers are called to cultivate through the Holy Spirit's work in their lives. The Apostle Paul frequently exhorts believers to exhibit patience. In Romans 12:12, he writes, "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, persistent in prayer" . Here, patience is linked with hope and prayer, suggesting that enduring trials is possible through a hopeful outlook and a prayerful life. James 1:3-4 further elaborates on the role of patience in spiritual maturity: "because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything" . Patience is portrayed as a refining process that leads to spiritual completeness. Christ as the Model of Patience Jesus Christ is the ultimate model of patience. His life and ministry exemplify enduring love and forbearance. Hebrews 12:2-3 encourages believers to look to Jesus as the perfect example: "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart" . Practical Application Believers are called to practice patience in their interactions with others. Ephesians 4:2 advises, "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love" . This instruction highlights the relational aspect of patience, urging Christians to extend grace and understanding to others. Colossians 3:12-13 also emphasizes patience as part of the Christian's new nature: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with one another and forgive any complaint you may have against someone else. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" . Patience is integral to forgiveness and maintaining unity within the body of Christ. In summary, patience is a commendable quality that reflects a deep trust in God and a commitment to living out the Christian faith with endurance and grace. Through the examples of biblical figures and the teachings of Scripture, believers are encouraged to cultivate patience as a vital component of their spiritual journey. Torrey's Topical Textbook Ecclesiastes 7:8Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit. Torrey's Topical Textbook Revelation 2:2,3 Library Index. Of the Example of Patience Given by a Certain Religious Woman. Good Friday. Evening. But God Commended his Love Toward Us, in ... Of those who Pretend to Patience but Excite their Brethren to ... A Description of the Roman Armies and Roman Camps and of Other ... 2 Cor. xii. 11 An Exhortation to the People Respecting Fortitude and Patience... Attributes of Love. 1 John iv. 17-21 Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity the Christian Calling and Unity. Resources What does the Bible say about patience? | GotQuestions.orgThe Fruit of the Holy Spirit What is patience? | GotQuestions.org The patience of Job'why is Job famous for being patient? | GotQuestions.org Patience: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Patience: Christ, an Example of Patience: Exercise, Towards All Patience: General Scriptures Concerning Patience: Isaac Toward the People of Gerar Patience: Ministers Approved By Patience: Ministers should Follow After Patience: Necessary to the Inheritance of the Promises Patience: Saints Strengthened to All Patience: should be Accompanied by Faith Patience: should be Accompanied by Godliness Patience: should be Accompanied by Joyfulness Patience: should be Accompanied by Long-Suffering Patience: should be Accompanied by Temperance Patience: should Have Its Perfect Work Patience: Suffering With, for Well-Doing, is Acceptable With God Patience: The Congregation at Ephesus Patience: The Congregation at Thyatira Patience: The Thessalonian Christians Patience: They Who are in Authority, should Exercise Patience: To be Exercised: Bearing the Yoke Patience: To be Exercised: Bringing Forth Fruits Patience: To be Exercised: Running the Race Set Before Us Patience: To be Exercised: Tribulation Patience: To be Exercised: Waiting for Christ Patience: To be Exercised: Waiting for God Patience: To be Exercised: Waiting for God's Salvation Patience: To be Exercised: Waiting for the Hope of the Gospel Patience: To be Exercised: Well-Doing Patience: Trials of Saints Lead To Related Terms Steadfastness (15 Occurrences) Longsuffering (17 Occurrences) Long-suffering (23 Occurrences) |
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