Sermon: The Virtues of Patience, Endurance, and Longsuffering
#1894A
Ted E. Bowling
Given 19-Sep-26; 38 minutes
description: Patience, long suffering, and endurance reflect God's character and are essential qualities of Christian living. Rooted in love and produced by God's Spirit, they enable believers to respond to delays, difficulties, and the faults of others with grace while remaining faithful through adversity. Scripture shows that trials test faith, develop perseverance, shape character, and strengthen hope. The examples of Joseph, Hannah, David, Peter, and others demonstrate how God can use prolonged hardship to accomplish His purposes, often providing what we need rather than what we desire. Like the injured marathon runner who refused to quit because he was sent to finish the race, Christians are called to persevere. Hebrews 12:1-2 points to Jesus as the ultimate example, encouraging believers to run their race with endurance, trusting God's presence and faithfulness until they reach the finish line.
transcript:
I think we all have heard this statement. Patience is a virtue. You probably also have heard the term patience is golden. Have you ever lost your patience with somebody? Have you ever let your impatience get the better of you? Or your temper get the better of you. While you're trying to wait for somebody or dealing with a spouse, dealing with a child, coworker or friend. The question I have for you today. Do you recognize When your patience is being tested. And do you recognize that it is part of our Christian life? That we will be tested. Our patients will be tested. And when you are tested, How do you respond? Do you respond with patient, enduring, and long suffering. Or do you just react? Considering the subject, the first verse that came to my mind was I Corinthians 13:4, which says, suffer, love suffers long and is kind. Patients long suffering. And kindness characterizes God's character. And it should also characterize us. And I was remembering an example of this from a few years ago. Where one of my inspectors was out working one afternoon completing insurance inspections. And she had a very meaningful encounter with an elderly woman. I'm going to tell you the story. She was there at the house to complete a standard insurance inspection. And again, the lady of the house was very elderly, and she asked the basic questions that we do, and she completed the inspection. But then somehow Uh, they started a conversation after the inspection had been done, and she said it's something that she will never forget, and I'm going to tell you the story. As they were talking, she said that the woman told her that her husband had just recently passed away. And she said that she could hear the loneliness in her voice. And toward the end of the conversation, the elderly lady said, I have a doctor's appointment this afternoon. Would you be willing or would it be possible for you to take me to that appointment? Without giving it much thought, the inspector said, Yes, I will. And when they arrived at the doctor's office, she told her, I'll just wait in the car for you here. And and she did. She waited right there until she was done and you know how long doctor's appointments can be. She did I did not remember how long she had sat there. And when the lady returned to the car, she asked, Well, there is a McDonald's nearby. Can I take you out to lunch? And She gave it some thought And she was thinking, you know, I could be out working. And should I be wasting all this time? But without thinking about it, she said, yes, I will. So as they said at the McDonald's, She said something began to change in her. The longer she spent with her, the less the work seemed important. It did not matter as much. Even the money that she would have been making did not matter as much. What mattered what her hurt to her was that little bit of time that she spent. With this lady that was lonely. And she did not want to be alone. Now Maybe she did need someone to take her to the doctor, and maybe she did need someone to have a meal with. Or maybe after losing her husband, she simply needed someone to sit across from. To talk to and someone to listen to her. And for someone just to show her a little bit of kindness. She said, I realized sometime. During this. That Giving up herself was something that was much more valuable. And to have an opportunity like this to serve the needs of another person, another human being. She said that day I felt Maybe I was helping this elderly lady, but looking back, I realized maybe she was helping me even more. You know I know for a fact that most inspectors At least in my business, would not even give this woman a second thought. They would only think about the money they are making that they might lose and the time that it would take. To spend time with this elderly woman. I've considered this thought myself. But you know something, Great moments often catch us unaware. Beautifully wrapped in what others may consider unimportant or insignificant. Oftentimes, Because of our self-centeredness, we miss out on wonderful moments in our lives. By failing to show kindness, patience, and love to others, no matter who they are. And I know I've been guilty of this. In fact, we live in a society where impatience, intolerance, Oversensitivity and the impulse of anger are prevalent. And we know that this world is driven. By Satan And it is amazing how even we Can be wrapped up In this attitude, in this mindset. And we are not immune to it ourselves. Mainly because We're not wired that way. Too many of us think that being patient with someone is a trial in itself. But there will always be someone or something in this world that will try our patience. It can be a stranger, but most often it's people that we know that we are around all the time, that we are close to. Especially friends, family, even church members. And in our marriages, these are the people that we are around the most. And I have to say, when we look at long-lasting marriages. Usually there is 1 mate out of the 2. That is very patient. Yeah, but we, I had that. I'm Jackie. There are many times our patients will be tested, and they often the example that everyone likes to use. Is the example of driving in traffic. And I read a quote about it which I really liked. Patience is something you admire in the driver behind you. But not so much in the driver ahead of you. I think this is a very accurate assessment of the subject. But in our Christian walk, in our relationship with God, Patience is a key component. Psalms 37. Verses 7 to 9, I'm going to read from the ESV version. Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him. Fret not yourself over the one who prospers in his way, over the man who carries out evil devices. Refrain from anger and forsake wrath. Fret not yourself. It tends only to evil. So patience, endurance, and long suffering. These are 3 key components of our spiritual life and building trust and a close relationship with our God. Developing patience and long suffering. can be a very profound challenge. Since human nature looks only for self-preservation and comfort. We, we get, we do live in a culture that wants instant gratification. And I believe this is a mindset that breeds self-centeredness. Now, self-centeredness and patience are psychological. Opposites because they are fundamentally, they fundamentally contradict each other in practice. Self-centeredness focuses entirely on me. It operates in the belief that your time, your needs, and your schedule are more important than anything else in the room, where patience focuses on the situation. The other It requires you to look beyond yourself and accept the world. And, and accept that the world does not revolve around you and your timeline. As we know Patience and long suffering are among the fruits of God's Holy Spirit. And I do not know about you, but I think maybe they are maybe the two that we most struggle with sometimes. You know, you've all heard the prayer. Lord, give me patience and give it to me now. Well, that's not what God really wants to see in us. God doesn't work that way. And anything worthwhile usually doesn't come quickly. Patience is something that we do not develop in a day. It's actually a lifetime struggle. And again, I do believe that patience, endurance, and long suffering may be the most different aspects of our human nature to overcome. So please turn to James chapter one. Another very familiar scripture on this subject. James chapter 1 and verse 2, please turn there. Verse 2 My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials. Another word here could be used for trouble is temptations. Trouble. The Messenger, the Messenger Bible reads it this way. Consider it sheer a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come from me from all sidesThat's just the opposite of how we normally feel. It's a punishment We feel like We're being done wrong. And it's very hard to look at a trial. In a positive way And there in verse two, it says the word when, when. And when indicates that there is going to be a long road before you. And there will be suffering, there will be trials, and it will not be easy. In other words, be ready to suffer long. Verse 3. Knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. And then down in verse 12. Blessed is the man who endures temptation. For when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those. Who love him You know, just as a fine Work of art can only be made a perfect vessel through shaping and molding by a master craftsman. And we are lucky and pleased and blessed. To have a master craftsman and our father. And savior And thankfully so Because that is to know that he is willing to work with you. And to mold you in his spirit. And that you are something special to him. So when trials come, when the temptations come, That's why it says rejoice. Because knowing that it is God. That is working with you and he loves you. At the beginning I said patience is called a virtue. What is a virtue and why is it important? The word virtue is synonymous with having a noble character. It simply means the quality or practice of moral excellence. As one of the central tenets of becoming like God. Let's go to Galatians chapter 5. In verse 22 and 23. Very, again, these are the fruits of the Spirit. And each of these are, by the way, virtues of God. But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. You see, Paul is showing us. That to live a life As God lives, we must be characterized by his own traits. And they can all be summed up in one word, and that is love, because God is love. Then in Colossians chapter 3 and verse 12, it says, therefore, As the elective God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humbleness of mine, meekness. Long suffering And I hear long suffering is Strong's number 3115. And I'm not going to try to pronounce it, so I'm going to spell it for you. M A K R O Q U M I A. And what that word means is long suffering, patience, endurance, forbearance, and perseverance. And so patience and long suffering are a part of God's Holy Spirit. And they are essential in the building. And enjoying a wholesome life. And Very important in the building of healthy relationships. Then in Colossians Verse 13 Burying one another and forgiving one another. If anyone has a complaint against another, even as Christ forgave you. So you also must do. Bearing with one another and forgiving one another, that is patience and that is long suffering in action. That's what the Holy Spirit is for. That's what the fruits are for, is to be put into action. And this gives us the opportunity. To rely solely on God when we are dealing with others. So these three words Long suffering, patience, and endurance. Their definitions are very, very close, almost overlapping. But they are vital to each other. The difference between these three words is very subtle and maybe not obvious at first glance, but they are different. And they are vital when in comprehending the faith that God expects from us. And understanding these words and applying them helps us to comprehend faith as God sees faith and it's faithful. Now patience, it means Calm means staying calm when dealing with delays, waiting, or annoying situations, accepting it peacefully. Patience is the power and a tool within ourselves that allows us to know. that this present age There will be discomfort But the, but eventually, There will be an end to that. The word long suffering is made up of two Greek words meaning long and temper, literally long tempered. To be long suffering then is to have self resilience. When you're stirred to anger. So long suffering is an extension. Of patients characterized by an enduring long term by suffering long term difficulties, hardships, mistreatment, pain. Or some relenting struggle. And handling it without complaints. It involves a deeper emotional reliance. It often pertains to enduring the faults or shortcomings of others, patiently forbearing others. Over extended time. And it deals with illnesses and sicknesses as well. And the word endurance, endurance means having the strength to keep going through these long-term pain, discomforts, and adversities. Endurance is the ability to withstand. It's the staying power while waiting for a remedy. Endurance involves holding up under heavy loads without giving up or surrendering to the circumstances. Just surviving sometimes is the best we are going to do in this life. I was not sure if I should. Talk about myself. But um Cuz I Can get emotional. As you know But I've um I've dealt with epilepsy. Since I was 19. And there is been difficult, difficult times. Now there are times that it's gone very easy for me, and I do not ever notice it, but I'm aware of it every day. One aspect or another. And And I do what it takes to keep it under control. And I thank Paul. Because I have been hands have been laid upon me. In my life and for healing and it's still here, it's still there. And so I think of Paul, he talked about the constant thorn in his side. And and I know. That There are so many And after the announcement today, You know My issues do not compare with the life struggles with so many that so many of you are going through. But But know, but know that it has a purpose. God knows the purpose. We may not know the purpose in the moment. But God does. One thing I do know, the trials humble us. And when we humble ourselves, we are able to see a little clearer how small we are. And how great God is. Be Part of being a Christian is the ability. To accept the unfortunate circumstances gracefully while having faith that they will ultimately find a solution in God. Remember the song by the Rolling Stones they sang. You can't always get what you want. But you just might find you get. What you need You know, God simply does not give us what we want. He's not in the business of spoiling us, you might say. He's in the business of shaping us. And his approach with us is to give us what we need rather than what we want. We must always remember That God cares about your eternal destiny. Your eternal life More than your current situation or comfort. Is it possible that being uncomfortable now for the greater good For later The answer is yes. We have to endure today. For what he is molding us into for our future. It is difficult to go through trials. And But please know there is a reason for it. There is a purpose for it. Please turn to Romans 5. Please turn to Romans 5. These are some of the most encouraging verses on this subject, I believe. The heading in my Bible in this chapter says faith triumphs in trouble. Start verse 1, Romans 5. Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into His grace in which we stand and rejoice and hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that that tribulation produces perseverance, and perseverance, character, and character hope. Now hope doesn't disappoint because the love of God has been poured out in the hearts. In our hearts By the Holy Spirit whom He has given us. The thought that we should glory or rejoice in sufferings goes totally against human nature, totally against it. But it doesn't go against God's. It doesn't go against God's. It truly takes godly it truly takes a godly perspective and godly faith and trust, and remember that God is working things through you. And that he's working for your best and for your good. Trials Will change the course of our lives. Trials strengthen our weaknesses. Trials also open up doors leading us closer to a relationship with God. To God's perfect will in our lives. In the lives of those around us. Colossians chapter one. Verses 10 and 11 Colossians 1. Versus 10 and 11. That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him. Being fruitful in every work and increasing in the knowledge of God. Strengthened With all might according to His glorious power for all patience. And long suffering with joy. And yes, it does say suffering with joy. It takes you back to James 1:2, where it says, Count all joy when you fall into various trials. God wants us to trust Him. And that to know that his promises that he promises to strengthen us by his glorious power. And so patience, endurance. And long suffering, these are gifts of God. And as I earlier said, patience is a virtue. Virtues are not virtues until they are tested. We do not have patience. Until we are tested and are able to endure and suffer long. Faith is a virtue Our faith is not faith. Until it's tested. And it is the very testing of our faith that purifies. Our faith is created slowly. By our patience and our ability to endure everything that this world throws at us. And brethren We will fell We will make mistakes One after another We will fall short and we will sin against God. But thankfully We have a God is a God of patience and long suffering. And that Is his spirit in action. Romans chapter 15 verse 4. For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we, through the patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Here Paul speaks of patience and comfort coming from the scriptures. As I was thinking about this, I remember there is so many things that we can learn from the stories throughout the scriptures to give us strength that we might endure. Think about Joseph. Joseph was sold into slavery. And imprisoned, but Joseph maintained patience and integrity. Ultimately rising into power in Egypt and reconciling with his brothers, you can read that in Genesis 37. How about Hannah? Hannah suffered for years being barren. And was mocked for being barren, but she remained faithful in her prayers. Eventually, Being blessed with a son named Samuel, and that's in First Samuel 1. You can read about David There is so many scriptures about David. And they record his trials. And we see his failures one right after another. We see him overcome. Then we see him fail again and we see him overcome and we see him fail. But he never gave up Not until you learned And I think it's safe to say, especially since it's so recorded. That we are seeing that it took David a lifetime. To overcome But he did It is because of God that gives us patience. Throughout the Gospels we saw how Peter struggled, and we see how Christ was patient with him. And we must have the same determination. Not to give up after our failures like David and Peter. We must beg God for forgiveness and for his patience with us. To help us to keep pushing forward and thankfully, Thankfully, patience is a major characteristic of our God. And each of us should be greatly grateful for that. Verse 5 Now, patience, now may the God of patience and the God of comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another according to Jesus Christ. None of us have ever come close to exhibiting, exhibiting patience like God. Back in 2 Peter. Verses 3, verse 9. It says, and I'm reading a lot of verses, but there is a lot of good verses here. Verse 9, the Lord is not slacking concerning His promises as some count slackness, but is long suffering towards us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. Our God is a God of patience. And his patience Uh, with all mankind is beyond understanding. Especially when it comes to us. And I'm thankful that he's patient with us, and we need to be as patient with others as he is with us. Please turn to 1I Thessalonians chapter 5. And verse 14. Now we exhort you, brethren. warn those who are unruly. Comfort the faint hearted. Uphold the weak. Be patient with all. I think this goes back to My opening story That began with the kindhearted inspector. Goodness Kindness and patience. That's what the widow desperately needed, just a small act of kindness. Now we will never know how much that impacted that lady's life at that time. It may have given her hope. That there was still some good in the world. And I know the patience of that inspector. Impacted her greatly. To the point that I know that's still vivid in her mind and also in mine. As children of God, patience and long suffering must be a part of our daily lives. Patience with everyone. is the way that God lives. And by the way, it's not just with the brethren, it's not just with our families, but to those that are unkind to us, folks that we do not know. We're going to have this attitude with everyone. Remember, the definition of patience is bearing. Up With annoyance or any pain without complaint. As we work through our tests and our trials. I believe it will give you a greater stamina to pray for others, to have more compassion for those that are hurting. Knowing God knows and that He allows trials will hopefully help you to learn to take your focus off of your troubles and hand them to put them into God's hands and unload your burdens at His feet. That's what he wants us to do. That is our faith. That is trust. First Peter Chapter 5 verse 10. This is from the RSV. After you have suffered a little while. The God of all grace who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ. Will himself restore, establish, and strengthen you. It's a story Fascinating story from the Olympics back in 1968 and took place in Mexico City. And there was a marathon runner, and his name was John Stephen Akori. He was from Tanzania. I do not know if you know the story. While competing in the marathon. At the 12 mile mark of the race, there was some jockling about for position between some of the other runners, and one of them hit him, bumped him, and he fell. Badly wounding his shoulder and dislocating his knee. And his knee was bleeding and there was someone there to bandage it, but he refused to stop. Now considering the severity of his injuries, Acquari was repeatedly asked to quit the race. But he refused to do so. continued by walking, limping, and running. Even to the point where he was plunged into darkness. He kept running and I saw a video of this where a single police car drove behind him with its lights on to make sure. That no one would hit him. After 3 hours and 25 minutes, he eventually finished among the 57 competitors that competed that day. Oh, by the way, 75 runners started the race. 18 dropped out. When he entered the stadium. There were only a few 1000 people left there that night and a TV crew was sent out when they heard the word that there was a runner. About to finish the race. And as he finished the line, as he reached the finish line, there is a cheers that came up from that small little crowd. His bravery in competing in the distance injured and alone was immediately noticed by the international media. An example of Olympic spirit. One journalist wrote, today we have seen a performance that gives meaning to the word courage. And when he was interviewed, They asked him, why do you keep running? And he said, well, my country did not send me 5000 miles to start a race. They sent me 5000 miles to finish a race. Although his body was exhausted. His perseverance, his endurance brought him to the finish line. You see Patience long suffering endurance is defined. A steadfastness In doing something despite the difficulty or delay. In achieving that success. Perseverance can bring us, can bring the best out of a person. Aquari's story reminds us. That's not just about how you start a race, but how you finish it. The apostle Paul echoes this statement in 2 Timothy. Chapter 4 and verse 7 where he said, I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. You see, Paul understood the true measure of success is not. In the beginning of the race. But it's finishing strong. It's about staying the course. And even when the path is rough, And the finish line seems distant. Keep going In Hebrews Chapter 12, verse 1 and 2 says, therefore, we also, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses. Let us lay aside every weight and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us. Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy, That was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame. And I sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. He finished the race He endured He's our example And that is a joy that's been set before us. If you and I can just visualize that same hope, and we will endure. And remember In Hebrews chapter 13 and verse 5, which is so important. Remember God will never leave you nor forsake you, never. So whether you're facing a personal challenge, Difficulties in your life. Traumatic health issues. Keep running Keep pushing and finish the race with perseverance and grace. It does not matter if you stumble or fall. What matters is that if you get back up and you keep going. And you're feeling strong Because God has given you everything you need to cross that finish line. And he's with you every step of the way. And finally Lamentations chapter 3 and verse 24. The Lord is my portion Says my soul Therefore, I hope in him
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