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What the Bible says
What Does the Bible Say About Patience?
The Bible calls patience a fruit of God's Spirit, the grace to wait, to endure, and to bear with others, because God is so patient with us.
Patience in Scripture is more than waiting; it is trusting God's timing and bearing with people without bitterness. It grows in the soil of trials, as we learn that God is working even in the delay.
We are patient because God is patient with us. He is slow to anger and abounding in mercy, giving us time to turn to Him. As we receive that patience, His Spirit grows it in us toward others.
Key Bible verses
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.”
Galatians 5:22 · King James Version (public domain)
“Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.”
James 1:3-4 · King James Version (public domain)
“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer.”
Romans 12:12 · King James Version (public domain)
“I waited patiently for the Lord; and he inclined unto me, and heard my cry.”
Psalm 40:1 · King James Version (public domain)
How this points to Jesus
Jesus is patient with us beyond all reason, waiting at the door, giving us time, never giving up on those who come to Him. He endured the cross patiently for the joy set before Him. His Spirit within us slowly grows the same patience, so we can wait on God and bear with one another.