Fruits of the Spirit Series - Longsuffering

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4

How fitting it was that this week’s fruit is longsuffering (or forbearance) because the start of this week was literal suffering. I say that with a chuckle because after church on Sunday I spent the next 24-hours getting acquainted with the bathroom since I had contracted the stomach flu. I was so grateful that my everyday reality was not like this! As a RN, I can recall a few patients who had long-term symptoms, (we’re talking MONTHS!) and they were unable to enjoy meals or go out anywhere because of it.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Longsuffering is another way of expressing patience towards someone or something. When we are longsuffering for God’s purpose, although challenging, He still provides a reason to be grateful and hopeful. Have you ever stood in the gap in prayer for someone and started experiencing adverse things in your life? You may have had physical ailments, issues with your finances, and felt that you were berated with attacks from the enemy. However, being able to see the spiritual warfare being won and manifested in the physical for the betterment of those you pray for while also declaring victory is so beautiful. Sometimes, God will allow you to face longsuffering to grow you into the person He needs you to be in the next season of life. Do you lack trust in Him? Do you pray but have doubts? He may have you go through a time that shows His sovereign provision in every situation. This in turn will not only increase your faith but allow others witnessing everything to increase theirs. Growing through things allows us to experience spiritual growth through our suffering so that God can use us to accomplish His perfect will in our lives and the lives of others.

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

Longsuffering is also a characteristic of God as mentioned in 2 Peter 3:9. Imagine how long God is waiting patiently for our “ah-ha” moment when we discover His Son and realize that our sins are destroying us. Because He has given us freewill, He watches over us each time we choose something else instead of Him. Even as followers of the faith, some of us keep picking things up from the altar and creating our own suffering. God has forbearance as He waits for us to trust Him with these things instead of trying to handle it ourselves.

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2

In the Book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul encourages us to adopt this characteristic of God as a body of believers to grow in spiritual maturity and encourage others. This is how we love one another; a reflection of how God loves us. Admittedly, it’s hard to be patient sometimes. Whether you’re sitting in traffic, overstimulated by your toddler, or overwhelmed with so many tasks, this is a time to reflect on God rather than the things of this world. We are in the world, but not of it, and our minds and reactions to things should reflect this (John 17:14). How can we take on longsuffering in a better way?

Reflection and Application

• What characteristics align with this fruit?

• What keeps you from being successful and purposeful in longsuffering?

• What is the difference between suffering for God and suffering from other causes?

• What can you do to better cultivate this fruit?