Forbearance

Galatians 5:22-23

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self- control. Against such things there is no law.

In reading this passage we usually just acknowledge the love, joy and peace part.

The Webster definition for forbearance is :

noun

1 : a refraining from the enforcement of something (as a debt, right, or obligation) that is due

2 : the act of forbearing : patience

3 : the quality of being forbearing : leniency

I've had to learn some hard lessons these past weeks. Lessons that go against what being a Christian is about. To put doubt in trust.

I have to admit, I am too trusting. I have always chosen to believe the best in people. But the reality is, not everyone has the same ethical system as I have and not everyone is a Christian.

By my own initiative, we had to let go of someone we had such trust on. The trust goes back 3 generations, from his father who worked for my grandfather all the way up to his children. This is someone my father saw grow up. Our family paid for his education and openly received him in the business along with his siblings. Their children we are now supporting as well. It all stems back to their father who, in his 90s, is the epitome of loyalty and trust.

It was not a quick solution. I've had my doubts and disappointment for years. I did all I could to change his character to no avail. To actually have concrete proof of his deception for 5 years on my watch was the final blow.

Business is cruel and unforgiving that way. Its in the very sinful nature of man that when given the opportunity or temptation to do wrong, some people just glide into it.

Now that that weak link has been dealt with, guilty people tend to squeal or grab onto anything that they can latch on on their way down. So I am faced with that dilemma of verifying. My spirits were shaken yesterday and I had to get a hold of myself before crying. I have always treated our people like family. Going beyond in my assistance has been my way.  Its been my family's way.  Its been a never ending lesson from my father to my brother and I.  But a rotten few can affect the whole basket.

But my God is good. So each day I ask Him to be the driver of this journey. Whatever justice that needs to be done, my God is swift.

Somehow God has instilled in me the thought that instead of carrying on an "off with their heads" approach, I just need to tighten up my ship and cover up loose ends. Take the temptation out of the picture.

It will never be a perfect system and there will be more of this in the future. But my God is great. By His grace, I can do this.

This passage came at the right time. As always, the Lord has perfect timing.