2PE 3:9 NIV
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.
It is rather unfortunate how hard we try to predict how God moves. We think we have known him so well that we can determine, with a fair amount of certainty, what God can do or won't do. We think we have walked with him long enough to know how he operates and thinks. Fortunately, God always disappoints man's expectations, otherwise, we would have been in deep trouble. If man could play God or predict God, then imagine what the world would be like. Thank God for not giving man that kind of power.
As we look at today's extract, what strikes me is that God always loves us to a fault, no matter our past or our baggage. He knows our weaknesses and shortcomings, and he's always giving us grace to repent and return to him. No matter how bad the sin or terrible the past, God is able to give a fresh start and a new beginning. Man is the one always counting scores and seeking to settle scores; God is always seeking to save man and guarantee him eternity. If God appears slow, it is because his love will not let us go without a fight. He will keep giving you oppourtunities to return to him.
This is one of the reasons why God should be feared. As powerful as he is, he does not force his will or ideas on you. He wants you to come to him willingly, out of love for him, not a sense of duty. He is looking for willing disciples, not compelled followers. The warning is this: one day, the oppourtunities will cease and judgement will come. Then, it will be too late to repent or return. While there's still time, it is now that is the best time. Today is the day of salvation, not tomorrow, not anytime else. Make today count; seek God out. He's waiting to save. His time of favour is here.
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