You hear it all of the time, “Patience is a virtue”, but what does it mean? A proverbial phrase that reminds the listener or reader about the societal and moral value of waiting to get what they want until a more convenient time. Some see it as a choice, only to be carefully taken.

The role of patience in our life isn’t exclusively individual. Being patient also helps you develop strong, healthy, long-lasting relationships. Your relationships with friends, family, and coworkers thrive when you practice patience. We may not be born into a perfect family, but we are stuck with them.

Patient people may also experience fewer negative emotions. That’s because with patience, you’re better equipped to deal with stressful and challenging moments in life. This helps your overall mental health and well-being.

Patient people may have an easier time being empathetic, kind, cooperative, and selfless. Being compassionate when others make mistakes helps create relationships where flaws are accepted. If you can’t change something, change how you feel about it.

However, it’s important to understand that patience isn’t transactional. When you are patient with a person, don’t expect them to do the same. Patience is about sustaining and bettering relationships — sometimes holding onto your own sanity.

Patience in the Bible is the ability to endure difficult people and situations without giving into anger or giving up hope. Because God continues to show us patience when we are doing disappointing things, we can show others patience when they disappoint us. 

“You also must be patient. Keep your hopes high, for the day of the Lord’s coming is near.” “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

“Also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts.