Forbearance Fruit

• Why do you think the Bible refers to good qualities as “fruit”?

• Can you think of a time when you were wronged, but you gave it to God instead of acting on it yourself?

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, and faithfulness.
Galatians 5:22

The Greek word that is translated as “forbearance” in this verse also means patience, endurance, perseverance, and restraint.

When the Bible talks about forbearance or patience, it’s talking about the supernatural ability to trust in God completely, even when we don’t understand what is happening in life. Being patient means that when things don’t go our way, we remain in control of our reactions and that we don’t drive ourselves and others crazy trying to make things go our way. We are patient when we peacefully endure unpleasant situations because we know that God is in control and that God has a plan.

People cannot be patient on their own. Being patient requires the power of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, patience is evidence of the Holy Spirit working in our lives. When you feel yourself becoming more patient, you know that God is working within you and that you are changing for the better. You are becoming more fruitful for God!

PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for being in control. Thank you that we can lean on you when things get rough. Please help us to have forbearance and patience. Amen.