Scripture Reading: Col 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man has a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so do ye.
Reflections: Paul exhorts the Colossians to practice forbearance, which entails always forgiving one another. The Greek word for “forbearance” is “anechomai,” which means “to tolerate” or “to endure without anger.” This implies that one should be patient with a person who has offended them until their anger subsides. When residing with others, it is inevitable that their actions will sometimes cause irritation. However as long as you permit it, the Holy Spirit will fill you with grace to enable you to tolerate their faults and failings. Once you are enabled to endure the errors and flaws of others, forgiving them becomes more manageable.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to be patient and understanding when it comes to the mistakes and shortcomings of others.
Confession: The Spirit enables me to make allowances for the faults and failures of others.