“The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.”
— 2 Peter 3:9 (NASB)
Introduction:
In a world that demands instant results, it’s easy to misunderstand God’s timing. We live in a culture of fast food, fast internet, and quick fixes. But God's clock operates differently. Peter reminds us in this passage that God’s seeming "delay" is not neglect — it is mercy.
God's Promise is Certain, Not Forgotten:
Peter
writes to believers who were growing weary, wondering if Jesus'
promised return would ever happen. Some even scoffed, saying, "Where
is the promise of His coming?" (2 Peter 3:4). But Peter makes it
clear — God is not slow, as some define slowness. He is not
forgetful, disinterested, or absent.
God’s promises are sure.
His Word is unchanging. What He said will come to pass, in His
perfect time. The question isn’t whether Jesus will return, but
when.
The Reason for the Delay — God’s Mercy:
Why
hasn’t Christ returned yet? Because of God's heart of compassion.
Peter reveals God’s desire plainly: "not wishing for any to
perish but for all to come to repentance."
God's delay is
driven by His patience. He is giving people time — time to hear the
Gospel, time to repent, time to be saved. Every moment that passes is
another opportunity for someone to turn from sin and turn to
Christ.
Think about that. The very breath in your lungs today is a
gift of God's mercy. The time He gives us isn't to be wasted but used
to proclaim salvation through Jesus.
Application:
- Are you growing impatient with God’s timing? Remember His patience is for salvation — maybe even for someone close to you.
- Are you praying for a lost loved one? Don’t lose heart. God is patient, not wanting anyone to perish. Keep praying, keep witnessing.
- Are you ready yourself? Though God delays, the day of the Lord will come suddenly (2 Peter 3:10). Are you living in expectation?
A Call to Action:
Believer,
use this time wisely. Share the Gospel. Live in holiness. Be ready.
And trust that God's promises, though they may seem delayed, will
never fail.
And if you haven't yet surrendered to Christ, today is
the day. God is patiently waiting, but the opportunity won’t last
forever. His return is certain. His love is available now.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for Your patience. Thank You for giving us time to repent and share the Good News with others. Help us not to grow weary but to trust in Your perfect timing. Stir our hearts with urgency to reach the lost and live ready for Your return. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
