What is forbearance in the bible?

Forbearance in the Bible is often associated with patience, long-suffering, and holding back from taking revenge. It is a quality of God that is described in the Old and New Testaments.

In the Old Testament, forbearance is often linked to God's mercy and compassion towards his people. For example, in Psalm 103:8, it says, "The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love." This verse highlights God's forbearance in not immediately punishing his people for their sins, but instead showing patience and giving them time to repent.

In the New Testament, forbearance is also emphasized as a virtue for believers to practice towards one another. In Colossians 3:13, it says, "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." This verse encourages Christians to show forbearance and forgiveness towards others, just as God has shown forbearance and forgiveness towards them.

Overall, forbearance in the Bible is seen as a reflection of God's character and a quality that believers are called to embody in their relationships with others. It involves patience, mercy, and a willingness to extend grace and forgiveness towards those who may have wronged us.