There are two greek words for patience: hupomone and makrothumia.
Hupomone is endurance inspired by hope. It is circumstance based. It is hope. It is perseverance in knowing that this is not the end. Patience. James 1:2-4 says
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
And later in James 5:11, James gives us an example of who had this type of patience: Job.
But the other kind of patience, makrothumia, is different. It is the word used in Galatians 5 when Paul talks about the fruit of the Spirit, it's the kind of patience that is inspired by mercy. It's the kind of patience that God has with us. It is 2 Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.
It's wanting God's creation to know Him. Not wanting one of His loved ones to perish.
It's also forgiveness for when I have sinned yet again. It's mercy when I have a doubt about God's goodness. It's all encompassing love when I need to be reminded of God's everlasting promises.
It's also what I have been called to do when I have been wronged. In fact, the greek word for forgive is aphiemi and it means to let go, let escape. Just as Christ did for us, He broke the chains of our sin...because He loved us too much to see us bound.
This type of patience, that is inspired by mercy, is about never giving up on the person, but setting them free because the love is so great.
What does this mean for us?
Has anyone hurt you? Let it go. Unforgiveness means that you have bound them to yourself. Cut them loose, set them free, forgive. I know, it's hard. But that mirrors what Christ has done for us. Never doubt what God can when forgiveness is involved. Oh my, healing is just one of His characteristics.
Never forget how much you have been forgiven from. Never forget how patient God has been with you.
Live in that Spirit. It's grace.
