"But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth" (Psalm 86:15).

God's longsuffering toward His human creatures means two things. He patiently continues to provide for us and serve us even while He suffers from our sins and stupidity. And God doesn't "lose His temper." Our very existence depends on God not reacting too quickly or overreacting!

Why is God longsuffering? He is generously giving us more time as He patiently waits for us to repent of our sins! "Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?" (Romans 2:4).

Likewise, Jesus Christ is longsuffering toward us for the same reason: "The Lord . . . is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance . . . And consider that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation" (2 Peter 3:9, 15).

Jesus Christ, our Savior, suffered and died for us. Ever since then, He has patiently and mercifully worked to save us and give us eternal life!

Therefore our attitude should be Christlike—respecting, loving and being patient with all people. We should hope for their good and pray for their spiritual growth and salvation!