April 25, 2023: Praise God He Is Not Slow!

"The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance." (2 Peter 3:9, ESV)

How we see time and how God sees time are two different things. God was—before time was. And God will be after time is no more. Time is just one little segment within the scope of eternity where God dwells. To God, a thousand years is as a day; but to us a day is often as a thousand years. We often find ourselves trying to hurry God along because He is moving too slowly. But Peter helps us to see from a different perspective.

Peter's statement reveals to us God's heart of love for the whole world. And at the same time, he shows us His compassionate sorrow towards those who do not have a relationship with Him. We hear it in Ezekiel 33:11 "... As I live, declares the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live;”

I am so thankful God does not want anyone to perish but all to come to Him. He is not slow. He is patient. His patience reveals His tender mercy towards all people. It also calls us to be patient, especially as we seek to lead others to Christ. Lord, help us to be patient with others while at the same time urgent with this Gospel.