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Colossians 3:12
“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering.”

Patience is one of the clearest reflections of how deeply we understand the grace of God. Paul roots his command not in personality or temperament, but in identity: “as the elect of God, holy and beloved.” We practice patience not because people deserve it, but because God has already given it to us in abundance.

The word “longsuffering” speaks of restraint under pressure. It is the capacity to remain steady when provoked, to endure irritation without retaliation, and to absorb inconvenience without complaint. Revival produces this kind of patience—not because circumstances improve, but because hearts are strengthened.

Impatience often reveals misplaced expectations. We expect people to grow faster, change sooner, or understand more clearly than God has required of them. Revival recalibrates our expectations and reminds us that sanctification is a process, not an event.

God’s patience toward us is astonishing. He bears with our slow growth, repeated failures, and lingering weaknesses. When we grow impatient with others, we forget how gently God has dealt with us. Revival restores that memory and reshapes our responses.

Patience does not ignore truth or excuse sin. It waits while God works. It trusts that the Spirit is active even when progress seems invisible. It gives space for repentance and room for maturity.

In church life, patience preserves unity. It keeps relationships from collapsing under strain. It allows love to remain intact while growth takes place. Revival strengthens patience because revived believers are less driven by control and more anchored in trust.

Ask God today to deepen your patience. Not merely tolerance, but longsuffering love that reflects His own heart. Patience is quiet proof that grace is reigning within.