How often do we find ourselves in situations where our patience is stretched thin? Whether it’s a frustrating interaction with a loved one, a delay in our plans, or the challenge of working through conflicts in relationships, patience can sometimes feel like the most difficult virtue to embody. Yet, patience is not just a matter of “waiting our turn” or tolerating discomfort; it is a deep expression of love. As followers of Christ, we are called to cultivate a patience that reflects the heart of God—one that bears with others in love, forgiveness, and grace. In Colossians 3:12-15, Paul gives us a powerful reminder of how patience is not just a passive act but an active, love-filled practice that roots us in Christ and strengthens our relationships with others.
Scriptural Reflection
Colossians 3:12-15 (NASB)
“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.”
In this passage, Paul urges the Colossians—believers who were struggling with divisions and misunderstandings—to “put on” virtues that reflect the character of Christ. Patience is highlighted here as an essential element of Christian living. Notice how patience is woven into the broader fabric of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and forgiveness. These virtues are interconnected, each one reinforcing the others. To practice patience, we must first cultivate humility and gentleness, understanding that others, just like us, are on a journey of growth.
The phrase “bearing with one another” speaks to the act of enduring with others, even when it’s hard. Patience is not passive; it is the active decision to persevere in love, especially when confronted with imperfections, misunderstandings, and challenges. Furthermore, Paul reminds us that our patience toward others is rooted in God’s patience toward us—just as Christ forgave us, so we are called to forgive and bear with one another.
The ultimate goal of all these virtues is to “put on love,” which is the “perfect bond of unity.” Patience, then, is not an isolated act, but one that works together with love, forming the foundation for unity in the body of Christ. Love is what gives patience its power—it makes patience not merely an act of enduring hardship but an expression of grace and compassion.
Practical Application
Patience Through Compassion and Understanding
One of the most important steps in practicing patience is learning to see others through the eyes of compassion. It is easy to become frustrated with others when we fail to understand their struggles, weaknesses, or situations. But when we approach others with compassion, we can more readily extend patience, knowing that we are all imperfect and in need of God’s grace.
Example:
Perhaps you have a family member who tends to repeat the same mistakes or behaviors that frustrate you. Instead of responding with irritation, take a moment to reflect on their struggles and needs. When you approach them with compassion, you will find that your patience grows, and you can respond with more understanding rather than frustration.
Practice Forgiveness as an Expression of Patience
Forgiveness is deeply intertwined with patience. In Colossians 3:13, Paul reminds us to “forgive each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone,” just as the Lord forgave us. Practicing forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting the offense or ignoring the hurt, but it does mean choosing to release the hold that offense has over us. When we forgive, we actively bear with others in love, allowing patience to flow freely from a heart of grace.
Example:
If you’ve been hurt by someone, take the first step toward healing by forgiving them. This may not be easy, but when you choose to forgive, you invite God’s peace into your heart, which makes it easier to be patient with others. Forgiveness is an act of patience because it requires us to wait for healing while choosing not to hold others’ offenses against them.
Letting the Peace of Christ Rule in Your Heart
In verse 15, Paul encourages us to “let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” The peace of Christ helps to calm our anxieties, frustrations, and impatience, especially when we are dealing with difficult situations or relationships. Patience flourishes in a heart that is anchored in Christ’s peace, trusting that He is in control and that He will bring about the good that we are waiting for.
Example:
When you feel your patience beginning to wear thin, pause and remember that God’s peace is available to you. Take a moment to breathe deeply, pray for His peace to fill your heart, and remind yourself that His timing is perfect. As you let His peace rule, you will find that your patience is renewed.
Encouragement to Stay Rooted
Practicing patience can be difficult, especially in a world that often values quick solutions and immediate results. It’s tempting to lose heart when our patience is tested, but the beauty of patience is that it roots us deeper in our faith. Every time we choose patience, we are choosing to trust God’s timing and His ability to work in and through our lives. Remember that God is faithful, and as you grow in patience, you are becoming more like Christ—who is the ultimate model of patience.
If you find yourself struggling with impatience, turn to God in prayer. Ask Him to help you cultivate a heart of patience that reflects His love. Trust that He is at work in you, molding and shaping you to reflect His image in the world.
Patience is a virtue that grows as we deeply root ourselves in Christ’s love, peace, and grace. As Paul writes in Colossians 3:12-15, patience is not simply about enduring; it is about actively choosing to love others with compassion, forgiveness, and humility. It is the kind of patience that mirrors the patience God has shown us, and it is this kind of patience that builds unity in the body of Christ.
As you go about your week, take time to intentionally practice patience. Remember, it is not a passive act but a choice to love and bear with others. May God’s peace rule in your heart, and may His love empower you to be patient, just as He has been patient with you.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for Your incredible patience toward us. We confess that we often struggle to extend patience to others, but we ask for Your help. Teach us to practice patience in love, to bear with one another in compassion and forgiveness, and to allow Your peace to rule in our hearts. May we reflect Your character in all that we do. Thank You for Your endless grace. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.