Devotion: Galatians 5:22

Galatians 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…

For long time readers, you will recognize today’s verse. We have studied it in the past and will likely study it in the future because it is a verse that has many components that can be explored. Today we look at how patience applies when we speak of the Fruit of the Spirit.

You will notice that the word “patience” does not appear in the translation that we have used (which is NIV). Instead, we see the word “forbearance.” Though not exactly the same as patience, it is closely related. Forbearance, as it is used in the Bible, refers to holding back, enduring, or exercising patience, self-control, and mercy. It is a characteristic of God and a result of the Holy Spirit working in the believer.

We have examples of people who patiently waited and endured in suffering. Jesus is the ultimate example of patience who suffered for our sins and saved us. We also have David as an example of forbearance – he waited many years before he was able to become king and during that time he trusted in God’s timing over his own. There were women who patiently waited for God to open their womb and bless them with children of their own, suffering and crying out to the Lord. There are many, many examples from the Bible that we can pattern our own waiting and endurance after.

While often translated with patience, forbearance often implies a “holding back” of action, whereas patience (long-suffering) is an endurance that one sustains over time.

Are you in a season of waiting currently? Perhaps you are waiting on God to provide you with a spouse. Perhaps you are awaiting the blessing of children in your home. Or maybe it is waiting on God’s timing for you to step into your destiny and make a way for yourself in this world. Whatever the season, trust that He is working and has a plan for your life. He will see you through the times when you must hold back and wait on Him to guide you forward. Be patient and don’t lose hope! A breakthrough is coming!

Prayer: Lord, I am ready for a breakthrough. I am ready to serve You. I’ve been holding back and waiting patiently and will continue to do so til You lead me forward. Guide me. Amen

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