Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
— Colossians 3:12–13

You can be the most loving person in the whole world, and there are still going to be people who don’t like you. Did you know that there are people who turn around and walk the other way when they see you coming? It’s true. But the converse is true too. There are people you just don’t get along with. It won’t matter how hard you try- you are not going to see eye to eye with everyone. Honestly, if you do that’s probably not a healthy thing. Its OK, you dont have to be friends with everyone. But you do have to learn to live in this world peaceably with others.

Patience is an important aspect of how we treat others, and Colossians 3:12–13 emphasizes the importance of being patient, kind, and forgiving.

This passage tells us to put on compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. It reminds us that we are God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, and that we are called to reflect His character in how we treat others. We are called to be patient and to bear with one another, even when it’s not easy.

In addition to being patient, we are also called to forgive one another. Forgiveness can be especially challenging when we feel that someone has wronged us or hurt us in some way. However, as the passage reminds us, we are to forgive others as the Lord has forgiven us. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus has provided a way for us to be forgiven and to experience His grace and mercy. As we extend this forgiveness to others, we reflect His love and grace.

Practicing patience with others requires us to let go of our own anger, frustration, and resentment and to extend grace and kindness. This doesn’t mean we have to tolerate abuse or mistreatment, but it does mean we can respond with love and forgiveness, even when it’s not deserved. As we do this, we are not only reflecting God’s character, but we are also promoting healing and restoration in our relationships.

Prayer:
Dear God, Help us to practice patience, kindness, and forgiveness with others, reflecting your character in how we treat them. Give us the strength to bear with one another and to forgive as you have forgiven us. May our interactions with others promote healing and restoration in our relationships, reflecting your love and grace. Teach us to live peaceably with those around us, and to continue to grow in our ability to love and serve others. In Jesus’ name, amen.