What does the Bible say about long suffering?

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The Bible teaches that long-suffering is God-given patience that bears with trials and people in humble, steadfast love. God Himself is merciful and slow to anger, patiently calling sinners to repentance rather than delighting in judgment (Exodus 34:6; 2 Peter 3:9; Romans 2:4). In Christ, believers receive this patience as fruit of the Spirit and are called to bear with one another in humility and love (Galatians 5:22; Ephesians 4:2; Colossians 3:12). Suffering also produces endurance and proven character, as God works all things for His people’s good and prepares them for coming glory (Romans 5:3-4; Romans 8:18, 28).

Top passages, ranked by readers

Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible

  • 2 Peter 3:9

    The Lord is not slow concerning his promise, as some count slowness; but is patient with us, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

  • Romans 5:3-4

    [3] Not only this, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering works perseverance; [4] and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope:

  • Galatians 5:22

    But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

  • Ephesians 4:2

    with all lowliness and humility, with patience, bearing with one another in love;

  • Romans 8:28

    We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, to those who are called according to his purpose.

  • Romans 2:4

    Or do you despise the riches of his goodness, forbearance, and patience, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?

  • James 4:7

    Be subject therefore to God. But resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

  • Exodus 34:6

    Yahweh passed by before him, and proclaimed, "Yahweh! Yahweh, a merciful and gracious God, slow to anger, and abundant in loving kindness and truth,

  • Colossians 3:12

    Put on therefore, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, a heart of compassion, kindness, lowliness, humility, and perseverance;

  • Romans 8:18

    For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which will be revealed toward us.

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