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4. “Erech Apayim” (Patience)
Description
“Erech Apayim” brings the ancient Hebrew phrase for patience, meaning “slow to anger,” to the forefront of worship. This song offers a prayerful reflection on God’s enduring patience toward His people and a plea for the Holy Spirit to instill that same patience in us. Drawing inspiration from 2 Peter 3:9, which declares that the Lord is patient, “not wanting anyone to perish,” the lyrics invite listeners to marvel at the boundless compassion God extends to humanity.
From the first verse, the song acknowledges our tendency to rush and react. Yet as it unfolds, it draws a stark contrast between human impatience and the divine, measured response of a God who continually shows mercy. The chorus exalts God as “Erech Apayim,” emphasizing that His slowness to anger is a reflection of His great love. This becomes an anthem of gratitude for His grace and a mirror for our own hearts—do we reflect the patience we have received?
Stylistically, the music moves at a deliberate pace, symbolizing the act of waiting on the Lord. The use of Hebrew bridges not only adds depth but also connects modern worshipers to the rich scriptural roots of the term. Each repetition of “Erech Apayim” serves as a spiritual reminder that patience is not passive; it’s an active stance of trust, a reliance on God’s timing and ways.
In essence, “Erech Apayim” captures the tension between our human impatience and God’s invitation to cultivate a measured, loving spirit. It calls us to slow down, listen more, and reflect His gentle pace in our interactions. By the end of the song, we are drawn to embrace patience as a divine virtue, one that transforms our relationships and helps us align more closely with the character of our long-suffering, ever-loving Father.
4. “Erech Apayim” (Patience)
Devotion
The Hebrew phrase erech apayim literally means “long of nostrils,” which in Hebrew idiom refers to being “slow to anger”—or patient. Patience, a trait of God, is vividly displayed throughout Scripture. 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us, “The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise… Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish.” God’s patience flows out of His desire for relationship with us rather than condemnation.
From Israel’s wanderings in the desert to the repeated cycles of disobedience in the book of Judges, God demonstrates patience towards His people. When we look at our own lives, we often see the same pattern: times of drifting, rebellion, and eventual repentance. Yet each time, God is there, willing to restore us upon our turning back to Him.
Patience is not passivity. It is an active trust in God’s timing and a willingness to wait for His redemptive work to unfold. In James 5:7, believers are exhorted to “be patient, then… until the Lord’s coming.” The imagery is that of a farmer who waits for precious crops to receive the early and late rains. This waiting is hopeful, expectant, and marked by perseverance.
Practically, patience is tested in everyday life—whether in family relationships, church settings, or unexpected delays. In these moments, we can lean on Ruach HaKodesh, who empowers us to endure with grace rather than reacting out of frustration. Proverbs 14:29 warns that “whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly.” Patience is a form of wisdom that keeps us from destructive impulses.
When you sing “Erech Apayim,” let it be a prayerful declaration that you desire to mirror God’s patience. Reflect on how patient He has been with you in seasons of doubt or rebellion. Let that truth soften your heart toward others—especially those who test your limits.
Prayer and Application:
Ask God to highlight situations where impatience creeps in—maybe in your work, family life, or spiritual journey. Pray that He’ll replace your quick-tempered reactions with His measured grace. Remember that patience grows through trials (see Romans 5:3-4), so don’t despise the process. Embrace each challenge as an invitation to cultivate the patience of God, trusting that He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion in Messiah Yeshua (Philippians 1:6).
Lyrics
4. “Erech Apayim” (Patience)
Theme: Personal Transformation — God’s Patience (2 Peter 3:9)
Verse 1
I’ve often gone astray
Still, Your kindness leads me on
Your mercy never fades away
Your patience makes me strong
Chorus
Erech Apayim, slow to anger
Adonai, You wait for me
Transform my heart, O Ruach HaKodesh
In Your patience, I am free
Verse 2
So quick to speak, so quick to judge
I wrestle with my pride
Yet in Your grace, I learn to trust
And in humility abide
Verse 2
So quick to speak, so quick to judge
I wrestle with my pride
Yet in Your grace, I learn to trust
And in humility abide
Chorus
Erech Apayim, slow to anger
Adonai, You wait for me
Transform my heart, O Ruach HaKodesh
In Your patience, I am free
Bridge
Teach me, Lord, to wait on You
As You have waited on me
Refine my life, let love break through
Till patience becomes my plea
Chorus (final)
Erech Apayim, slow to anger
Adonai, You wait for me
Transform my heart, O Ruach HaKodesh
In Your patience, I am free
In Your patience, I am free