Our Bible verse for today: “The Lord does not delay his promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish.” 2 Peter 3:9 (CSB)
Our thought for today: “God is merciful”
Yesterday we considered the truth that God is just and that sin must be punished. We read what Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 5:10 that we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ to answer for our conduct, be it good or bad. We also learned that on that day, if we have placed our faith in Jesus for the forgiveness of our sins, we will be declared righteous and granted eternity in heaven. That happens because of the mercy of God.
God is infinitely merciful. Mercy is an integral part of His nature. By nature His desire is to forgive and bless. His justice requires Him to hold people accountable for their actions, but His mercy moves Him to want to forgive and bless rather than to discipline and punish.
This is what Peter was referring to in 2 Peter 3:9. God does not want to punish and condemn if such action can be rightly avoided so He has provided the opportunity for salvation through faith in Jesus. He is also extraordinarily patient with us as His Holy Spirit works in our lives to draw us to Christ. As Peter wrote, it is not God’s desire that any should perish.
This is not universalism. The doctrine of universalism teaches that nobody is condemned, regardless of their conduct and regardless of their beliefs about Jesus. God doesn’t want anyone to be lost and so they aren’t. But that’s not what the Bible teaches and that’s not what Peter was saying in this verse.
God is extraordinarily patient with us before pronouncing judgment because He wants us in heaven instead of in hell. But if you reject Jesus, you will go to hell. Therefore all throughout your life the Holy Spirit works to draw you to faith in Christ. In a thousand different ways He orchestrates events in your life so you will hear the Good News of the Gospel and have many opportunities to place your faith in Christ. He is patient as the Holy Spirit works on you, and that patience comes from His mercy.
God loves you. He wants to bless you and He is extraordinarily patient, but you do have to cooperate. So what are you waiting for? Come to Him today and be blessed, because He is merciful and He wants to bless you.
Oak Hill Baptist Church