"Showing Patience- Fruit of the Spirit"

BIBLE READING: Galatians 5. 22-23


Patience is defined as the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble, or suffering without getting angry or upset.  For so many of us, this is one fruit that is very elusive.  We live extremely busy lives and pack so many things into our day that one hiccup in our day starts a domino effect that pushes patience out of our lives extremely quickly.  Looking to God as our example, Exodus 34:6 describes the Lord as "slow to anger and rich in kindness and fidelity."  The speed at which we are angered is key to preserving our patience.  So, here are some strategies we can employ to increase our level of patience.  1) Slow down; do not fill every hour of your day with activities and deadlines.  2) Listen carefully; don’t think of your response while someone is speaking.  3) Choose patience;  remind yourself that in every situation you have a choice of how you will respond—so respond with calmness.  Finding ways to be more patient not only impacts you, but is a fruit that makes others want to know the source of your patience. It gives you an opportunity to tell others about Jesus!  Simple acts to improve your patience can have a big impact.

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