Exodus 34:6 says: “And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth…”,
In what ways can you do these in your daily walk with God and with your neighbor: Longsuffering.
The word longsuffering is not used much today, and as used as a characteristic of God may not be understood. The first though might be someone who suffers a lot. As used as a grace in scripture, it means to have self-restraint when one is stirred to anger. Slow to be offended, outraged, angry or upset – especially when one has a right to be so. A longsuffering person does not immediately retaliate or punish. This is especially important when one has the position or power to do so, but refrains.
Strengthened with all might according to his glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness; – Colossians 1:11. We need God’s strength to have long-suffering, and especially to do it joyfully, not with resentment.
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; – Colossians 3:12. As a follower of God, we want to ‘put on’ the traits of God.
Practice longsuffering today, with your own self, with those closest to you, with those you deal with often, and with strangers. Honor God. God will greatly reward your practice.