READ 2 Peter 3

 “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”

Verse 9 in 2 Peter chapter 3, is a verse I chose to memorize many years ago.  I did so because it allowed me to connect with God’s longsuffering in redemption.  I don’t want anyone to die without Christ, and even more so nor does the Lord.

The context of this verse is one that is couched in the middle of verses about the return of Christ and the impending judgment that will come when He returns.  We can certainly say that Christ hasn’t yet come back because of His longsuffering.  He does not want any to perish.

One reason why God has not returned is because He is longsuffering.  The Greek word translated “longsuffering” is makrothumeo, which literally means “macro-patient.”

 Another reason why God has not returned is because He desires no person to perish.  The word “perish” speaks of suffering judgment, condemnation, and punishment for all of eternity.  To be separated from God eternally is to be a resident of hell for eternity.

I am so very glad that God is longsuffering, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

 Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  In what ways has God been longsuffering toward you?

2.  In what ways have you been longsuffering toward others? Explain.

3.  What is God’s heart toward the lost? How should His heart compel you to share the gospel?

4.How does a person know for sure that they will never perish? (see John 3:18 & 36)