What the Lord Wants

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Scripture: 2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)

9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.

Devotion:

The verse from 2 Peter 3:9 speaks profoundly about the nature of God's patience and His desire for us. It tells us that God is not slow in fulfilling His promises, as some might think. Instead, He is patient, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance. This verse is a testament to God's enduring love and compassion for humanity.

In our fast-paced world, we often equate speed with efficiency and success. We grow impatient when things do not happen in our time frame. However, this verse reminds us that God's timing, which is not bound by our human understanding of time, is perfect, even if it doesn't meet our expectations. His delays are not due to indifference or inability but are acts of grace and mercy, giving us time to turn to Him.

God's ultimate desire is for everyone to come to repentance. Repentance is more than just feeling sorry for our sins; it involves completely transforming the heart and mind, turning away from sin and towards God. It is a call to change, to leave behind the ways that lead to death, and to embrace the life that God offers through Jesus Christ. It is a process of turning away from our sinful nature and aligning our lives with God's will.

This verse also challenges us to reflect on our own patience and compassion. How do we respond to others who may be struggling or taking longer to come to faith? Are we quick to judge and condemn, or do we extend the same patience and love that God shows us? As followers of Christ, we are not just called to receive God's patience, but to mirror it. This responsibility should motivate us to offer others the grace and time they need to come to know Him.

We must remember that God's promises are sure and steadfast in our faith journey. His delay is not a sign of forgetfulness but a demonstration of His desire for all to be saved. Let us embrace this time as an opportunity to deepen our relationship with Him, grow in our faith, and share His love with those around us.

May we live each day with the understanding of God's immense patience and love, striving to bring others into the fold of His grace. Remember, God's apparent slowness is not a delay, but a demonstration of His desire for all to be saved. This reassurance should comfort us, knowing that His timing is perfect. It's a precious gift, giving us the chance to repent and receive eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Prayer:

            Lord, help us to understand why you seem slow to us. May we be mindful that you are patient with us. You never give us more than we are ready for, even when we think we can handle things. You desire all people to come to a saving knowledge of you. So, you are patient and gentle with us because you know our frailty. May we learn patience with you and with others so we can bring glory and honor to your name in the sight of all people. Amen.

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