1 Timothy 1:16; However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering, as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting life.
Long suffering is a trait of true love, God endures the stubbornness, sinfulness and foolishness of mankind, waiting for all to change their mind about Him and receive the Truth. True love endures, that’s why Paul says ” while we were yet sinners Christ died for us”.
When you want someone to change before you love them, your love lacks endurance. We as Christians are called to endure unbelievers, loving them in all their mistakes and stubbornness while always pointing them to the Gospel. Someone may ask “why must I endure the foolishness of other people who don’t believe what I believe?”.
We must endure because we also didn’t start out as believers, someone endured our foolishness hoping we would receive the Truth. And even after we have been saved God still endures our foolishness, unbelief, arrogance etc, still showing us His unconditional love, we have no excuse but to follow in this same pattern for the benefit of others.
It’s a brand new day! Keep enjoying Kharis!
Pastor Josh Laryea