Colossians 3:12-13, “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.”

We all know people who test our patience and our nerves. Social media provides an easy venue for people to express their frustration, often when it would be better for them to remain quiet. This idea of being pushed past our endurance finds its way into every area of life. In the church, it is often expressed in the songs we sing, or don’t sing, to the temperature of the sanctuary. It’s too hot; I’m freezing! I can’t hear the words because the music is too loud, and I think the preacher really needs to shorten his sermons. I won’t even mention politics!

Do I have to put up with some of this stuff? Paul seems to be saying in this scripture that, if Bible doctrines are not at stake, yes, I do. He said we should learn to “bear with each other.” There will always be things that irritate us, but as brothers and sisters in the Lord, we must not allow them to hinder the work of the Lord. And of course, this goes both ways. Just as we find ourselves having to put up with others, remember that some are having to put up with us.

So, if you will put up with what I do, I will do my best to put up with you!!