Section 6
everyone. He may come to you in a certain way because He knows that you are a certain kind of person. However, He may approach another per son in a very different way.
The Bible reveals that God exercises forbear ance in carrying out His economy. If God had dealt with fallen man in the way we deal with others, there would have been no way for Him to fulfill His purpose. But God has made His for bearance known to all men. Thus, God Himself set up an example, a pattern, of forbearance, mak ing known His forbearance to men throughout all generations. God makes known His forbear ance by dealing with us in a way that is reasonable, suitable, and considerate. God never disciplines anyone without proper consideration. He often waits a long period of time before chastising someone. God certainly is forbearing and full of understanding, wisdom, patience, consideration, sympathy, mercy, kindness, love, and the supply of life. Consider, for example, how forbearing He was in dealing with Israel. If you read of Israel's journey in the wilderness, you will see that God truly was forbearing toward them. God has also been forbearing with us. He has dealt with us like a wise and loving father, full of forbearance.