"Love is patient..."

-1 Corinthians 13:4

1 Corinthians 13 describes "the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." The New Testament writers had to introduce a new word for love (agape) because there was no other word to describe it. This is the love which "has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given us." The first characteristic of this love listed is patience or long-suffering. God's love manifests self-restraint. It is slow to anger, and resentment and does not lose its temper. The shortcomings of others do not sway, consume, or control those who "walk in love." Since God is love, you cannot separate love and God. If you have one, you have the other. We know the Lord in His love “is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” The Lord's patience was fully demonstrated following the crucifixion when He gave the Jews nearly 40 years to repent before judgment came in 70 AD. We should be thankful the Lord is patient with us and has given us His love so we can be patient with each other. Be encouraged!

Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 13:4; Romans 5:5, 8:39; Ephesians 5:2; 2 Peter 3:9