[READ + MEDITATE]
As we continue our consideration of Galatians 5:22-23, the Apostle Paul’s list of the “Fruit of Spirit,” it’s important to remember that these fruits are not only attributes for us to prize and prioritize as important, this fruit also describes what God is like; and this list of fruits are some the very character traits of God that we are called to emulate as image-bearers (Gen. 1:26).
Here’s what this Lenten focus on the “fruits” of the Spirit is all about: Does our life give any evidence of an encounter with God? Do we exhibit “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, trustfulness, gentleness, and self-control” and other similar God-like qualities? Are we different from our surroundings, or do we reflect the predictable cultural values and biases of our surroundings?
The fourth fruit is FORBEARANCE. The Greek word used for forbearance in this passage is makrothumia and it can mean fortitude, long-suffering, slowness to avenge, patient in enduring evil.
Take some time today to consider God’s patience, long-suffering, and fortitude. Ask him to help you emulate the very patience he has shown you in your relationships and interactions with others.
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