• God is the ultimate example of patience (Romans 2:4; I Peter 3:20). Imagine if God had absolutely no patience with us. How would that change things for us (II Peter 3:9,15)?
  • Regarding a number of qualities in the Bible, we receive the benefit from God and then are to turn around and exhibit that quality ourselves. For example, we are forgiven by God, and thus we turn around and forgive others (Matthew 18:21-35). Such is the case with patience. God is patient with us; we should be patient with others. You might say that Paul was a “product” of Christ’s patience (I Timothy 1:16). He turned around and became an example of patience to people like Timothy (II Timothy 3:10). The next time we’re having trouble being patient with someone, what should we call to mind?
  • I Thessalonians 5:14 – be patient with everyone. See also II Timothy 4:2.
  • Hebrews 6:11-15; James 5:7-11 – The people of old were great examples of longsuffering. What can we learn from them?
  • Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 1:11; 3:12-13 – commands to be patient.
  • What are the practical benefits or results of a Christian being truly longsuffering?