What is patience? The Greek word translated as patience is literally makrós, “long” and thymós, “passion, anger” – waiting a long time to express anger. It brings to mind this wisdom from the Apostle James.
James 1:20 (NIV)
My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.
I tend to think of patience as willingness to wait, deferred gratification. It’s easy to miss the part about deferred anger.
Good morning, Lord. I want to be patient, to be slow to anger. Teach me to think before I speak angry words. Teach me to pray first and speak after. Teach me to follow the nudge of Your Holy Spirit — holding my tongue or choosing my words as You direct.
