This morning I rushed to the office for a new client – no time for coffee with Douwene or even breakfast. Instead, I grabbed a banana and rushed off to prepare for the appointment. However, two minutes after the session should have started, I received a text with an excuse. For times like these, Paul the Apostle encourages us to “bear with one another”.
The Philippi church of Christ had two leading ladies who were constantly at odds with each other (Euodia and Syntyche – Phil.4:1-3). To help them get along Paul advised “in HUMILITY count others MORE SIGNIFICANT than yourselves” (Phil.2:3b).
The point Paul is pressing is, if I think of myself more highly than I ought, I will easily feel offended and may become bitter. But, just to be safe, Paul instructs us to consider others as more significant. That means, their time needs to be more valuable than mine. In fact, I should feel extremely honored that they have chosen to potentially grace my presence.
Paul further fleshes out this “bearing with one another” in his letter to the Ephesians: “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all HUMILITY AND GENTLENESS, WITH PATIENCE, BEARING WITH ONE ANOTHER in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:1–3 ESV).
Paul is urging us to bear with one another as we walk in a worthy way. That is, to maintain the unity of Spirit in the bond of peace via three beacons.
First, humility. I am sure, as a prisoner, Paul was existing at the beck and call of others. All his freedom, rights, and privileges were gone. He was always the least important person in the room. It is hard to be arrogant or proud in a dehumanizing dungeon.
Secondly, gentleness. A gentle individual is soft spoken. Like a velvet glove they will tell you the truth – but do it kindly.
And, finally, patience. I keep reminding myself – only weeds grow fast. Our instant gratification world makes for an impatient mindset.
Friend, are you humbly, gently, and patiently bearing with one another?
