One way to understand God’s patience is by understanding the greatness of his power. As Charles Spurgeon once observed, those with truly great power also possess the power to control themselves. God has the power, then, to curb his own power, to restrain his anger for a higher good. As Spurgeon puts it,
“the power that binds omnipotence is omnipotence surpassed.”1
God’s strength is what enables him to bear insults and offenses without immediately punishing those who commit them. So patience is a virtue based on strength and not weakness. God’s patience is borne out of his desire to welcome all into his kingdom, allowing each of us the chance to repent and receive his forgiveness.
Key Scripture
I am slow to anger
and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness. Exodus 34:6
- C.H. Spurgeon, Spurgeon on the Attributes of God (MacDonald), 64.
