Numerous are the attributes of God for which man ought to stand in awe, wonder and thanksgiving, including His holiness, love, mercy, omnipotence, etc. One of His most astounding characteristics (and essential for mankind) is His longsuffering!
The Greek word for “longsuffering” or “patience” is makrothumia, which is a compound word 
combining makros (“long”) and thumos (“temper” or “feelings”). Thus, makrothumia describes one who is long of feeling or long in coming to anger. Aren’t you glad God is makrothumia!
W.E. Vine said this “is that quality of self-restraint in the face of provocation which does not hastily retaliate or promptly punish.” William Barclay noted, “If God had been a man He would long ago have taken His hand and, with a gesture, would have wiped out the world.” Aren’t you glad God is makrothumia! The riches of God’s longsuffering (Rom. 2:4) is waiting (like in Noah’s day, 1 Pet. 3:20) for everyone to repent (2 Pet. 3:9) and to be saved (2 Pet. 3:15). Take time to thank God for being makrothumia, and realize that at some point it will cease!