The Fruit Of The Spirit - Longsuffering

DEVELOPING LONGSUFFERING
A. THROUGH LOVE...
1. It is love that "suffers long" - cf. 1Co 13:4-8a
a. Unless we love those who have wronged us, there will not be sufficient motivation to bear with them
b. Therefore love (active good will) is fundamental to being slow to avenge wrong
2. By growing in love (to remember how, cf. 1Th 4:9; 1Jn 3:16), we will grow in patience!

B. THROUGH PRAYER...
1. Paul evidently believed prayer would help the Colossians to have "all patience and longsuffering with joy" - Col 1:9-11
2. Certainly the God who is longsuffering (cf. Ps 145:8) will strengthen those who desire to be like Him!