Testy

1 Corinthians 13:4 “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”

James 1:3-4 “You know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”

Think

In a Peanuts cartoon, Lucy stands with folded arms and a stern expression as Charlie Brown pleads for more love in the world. He urges her to embrace love to make the world a better place. However, Lucy reacts angrily, spinning around and knocking Charlie Brown to the ground. With frustration, she retorts, "Look, Blockhead, it's the world I love. It's people I can't stand."

Many of us are familiar with the love list found in 1 Corinthians 13, often quoting the timeless "love is patient, love is kind." Yet let's delve a bit deeper into these first two aspects. The initial "love is patient" is about refraining from retaliation, while the second "love is kind" is proactive, bestowing benefits upon others. Navigating this dual challenge of embodying what Jesus gives us and extending it to others is a daily endeavor.

The word patience is derived from two Greek words—makros and thumos—literally describing a prolonged restraint of anger or agitation. This patience goes beyond merely not retaliating; it reflects the power to avenge oneself, yet choosing not to. Makrothumeo embodies emotional calmness in the face of provocation, misfortune, or unfavorable circumstances. Love, in this context, endures indefinitely, displaying longsuffering and persistence. It's the capacity to endure inconvenience or being taken advantage of without becoming upset or angry. This kind of love shows a willingness to accept someone's unpleasant traits with enduring patience, taking it all in stride.

Apply

Read Proverbs 25:28, which highlights self-control in managing emotions. Develop practical strategies for exercising self-control, such as taking deep breaths or counting to ten before responding in challenging situations.

Pray

Lord, I confess that I often struggle with impatience, especially in the face of trials and difficulties. Teach me to love others as you have loved me, showing grace and understanding in all circumstances. I also ask for the strength to forgive those who have wronged me and to let go of any bitterness or resentment in my heart. In Jesus’ name. Amen.