How We Put On and Keep On the New Personality - "CLOTHE YOURSELVES WITH . . . MILDNESS . . . AND PATIENCE"

In today's world, people who are mild and patient are often considered weak.  How far such reasoning is from the truth!  These beautiful qualities originate from the most powerful Person in the universe.  Jehovah God is the best example of showing mildness and patience.  (2 Peter 3:9) Consider how he responded through his angelic representatives when Abraham and Lot questioned him.  (Genesis 18:22-33; 19:18-21) Also, for over 1,500 years, Jehovah put up with the wayward nation of Israel. -Ezekiel 33:11. 

Jesus was "mild-tempered." (Matthew 11:29) He showed great patience in putting up with the weakness of his followers.  Throughout his earthly ministry.  Jesus endured unjust criticism from religious opposers.  Yet, he was mild and patient right up to his wrongful execution.  While suffering agonizing pain on the torture stake, Jesus prayed that his Father forgive his executioners because, as he said, "they know not what they do." (Luke 23:34)  What an outstanding example of mildness and patience under painful stressful circumstances! -Read 1 Peter 2:21-23.  

How can we show mildness and patience?  Paul mentioned one way when he wrote to fellow believers:  "Continue putting up with one another and forgiving one another freely even if anyone has cause for complaint against another.  Just as Jehovah has freely forgiven you, you must do the same."  (Colossians 3:13)  Indeed, it takes mildness and patience on our part to obey this command.  But by being forgiving, we promote and preserve the unity in the congregation. 

Being clothes with mildness and patience is not optional for a Christian.  It is an essential requirement for our salvation.  (Matthew 5:5; James 1:21)  More important, by means of these qualities, we honor Jehovah and help others to heed Bible counsel. -Galatians 6:1; 2 Timothy 2:24, 25. 

Next time: How We Put On and Keep On the New Personality - "CLOTHE YOURSELVES WITH LOVE"

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