1095 God, patience of

God shows forbearance in his character, decisions and actions. Above all, he waits patiently for people to turn to him for salvation.

God’s patient character

God is slow to anger Nu 14:18 “slow to anger” is the main OT expression for God’s patient character. See also Ex 34:6; Ne 9:16-17; Ps 86:15; Ps 103:8; Ps 145:8; Joel 2:13; Jnh 4:2; Na 1:3

God imparts patience Ro 15:5 The Greek can be translated “God of endurance/patience”. The phrase suggests that God is patient and imparts patience. See also Jer 15:15; 2Th 3:5; 1Pe 3:20

God’s patience with sinful people

God’s patience lasts a long time Ac 13:18 See also Dt 8:2; Ne 9:30; Ps 78:38

God is patient in delaying punishment Isa 42:14 See also Ne 9:30-31; Ps 50:20-21; Ps 78:38; Isa 48:9; Hab 2:3

Sinful people try God’s patience Mal 2:17 See also Ge 18:16-33; Nu 14:27; Ps 78:41,56; Isa 1:14; Isa 7:13; Isa 43:24

Examples of God’s patience

Ge 8:22 with creation; Ge 18:32 with the city of Sodom; 1Sa 3:10 with Samuel With his people: Eze 20:17; Mic 7:19
Jnh 3:1 with Jonah

The purpose of God’s patience

Repentance Ro 2:4 See also 2Pe 3:9

Salvation 2Pe 3:15 See also Ro 9:22-24

See also