Patience is one of the many things wisdom provides for us in life.
It’s been said we judge others by their actions and we judge ourselves by our intentions. When we act irrationally or emotionally, our minds justify our behavior, but we tend to pounce at the first offense of others.
I like what the writer of Proverbs says in 19:11:
A man’s wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.
Proverbs 19:11
Wow! It’s to a person’s glory to “overlook an offense.”
The NLT phrases it a little differently: “Sensible people … earn respect by overlooking wrongs.”
We live in a hypocritical culture
On one hand, “everyone can do what they want and it doesn’t matter,” often with no moral limit. On the other hand, culture and media say, “but you offended me.”
And it’s not just a media-saturated world with social media arguments or political issues every moment. It comes down the personal level as well.
Live with anyone in the same house for more than a day and you will find yourself in trouble if little offenses are not overlooked.
One study just claimed the divorce rate has spiked more than 31% more than last year at this time due to the pandemic, being cooped up, homeschooling schedules, financial pressures, and the list goes on. Relationships need patience, especially in stressful times.
Prescription for peace
This wisdom from scripture is the prescription for a more peaceful home — Be even-tempered, wise, and patient with one another. Overlook small things that don’t matter.
This goes for the workplace, neighborhood, extended family, and social media connections: Wisdom brings patience and it’s to your benefit and well being to overlook small offenses.
This is a life practice I was to develop.