Love suffers long and is kind… 1 Cor 13:4 (NKJV)
Ever met someone who “suffers short”? Actually that can be me if I haven't had enough sleep and/or food! Haha! But seriously, someone who's not very tolerant is no fun at all to be around. They pollute the atmosphere with negative vibes and make whatever situation your in even more unbearable. When you take a step back, you'll notice their frustration and suffering is all about them. They have little to no regard for others around them and are completely about their own comfort.
On the flip-side, when you're in a challenging situation and you're with someone who can “suffer long”, it makes it so much more tolerable. Why? Because their heart-stance is to give not take. They're actually positioning themselves to help others around them and so with that motivation they can endure much more. They find joy in being generous and that joy is the end-goal they have in sight when enduring hardship.
Kinda sounds like Jesus doesn't it? It ultimately takes kindness and love to suffer long and putting others needs above your own, BUT it always makes you more desirable to be around.
“It's more blessed to give…” Acts 20 says. Be kind. Be long-suffering. Be love…and have the best day!
