Makrothumia (Greek), pronounced mak-roth-oo-meh'-ah, forbearance, long-enduring, fortitude, long-suffering, and patience. When does a person develop patience? At the point of the new birth? How long does it take to cultivate this fruit to maturity? What does it take to make the process happen? The special application of this quality of character is most often exhibited in our dealing with other people - relationships. Perhaps it's easier to approach this from the negative side. Lack of patience can poison relationships and too often ruins what would otherwise be wonderful and maybe even brilliant personalities. But this fruit takes time to mature. But the fruit of the spirit is Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self-Control... - Galations 5:22 23 In these Bible studies from best-selling author Robert Strand, you will learn about yourself and how to relate to others as you gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be in Christ.
Like the other Fruits of the Spirit books it was a basic Bible study read this passage, answer these questions, relate it back to your life. Then additional verses to solidify the message.
This one I needed - a reminder of God’s favor for those who place their hope in him.
What I needed to hear was my favorite line from this book “Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself”.
Much like the other books of this collection, this book is more of a “companion” study guide for a book that I wish the author would have written. The stories are not directly related to the theme, although they are inspirational and applicable, to a minor extent. The written material could be contained in about 10-20% of the entire book.
Having patience is about enjoying the present - a gift - where you are. It's transcending the overwhelming collection of minutia and abiding in the hope we have of the unchainging character of Christ who makes all things new. Patience is related to forgiveness - acceptance and bearing while transcending sin and pettiness. We must see God's mercy towards us so we can offer it to others. We can have compassion. We can resist temptation by being quick to obey and listen. We don't have to be compulsive and impulsive.