Bible Dictionary
FORBEARANCE
Forbearance is patient restraint or a holding back from immediate judgment or retaliation. God’s forbearance displays mercy toward sinners, and Christians are called to show similar gentleness toward others.
Biblical Usage
God’s forbearance is associated with His goodness, longsuffering, and the passing over of sins done previously. Christians are called to display a corresponding forbearance or gentleness. The term can also describe holding up under evil.