“For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you”
~John 13:15
“The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
~2 Peter 3:9
As I was researching for this post I came across these two verses and I got to thinking… While Jesus was on the earth He set us an example that we should follow (see 1 Peter 2:21-24). He showed us how to live and what is really important in life–loving God and loving our neighbors (Matthew 22:37-39).
God has shown us His patience in His Word. During the Exodus, there were numerous times where the people grew impatient and wanted something NOW. They cried and complained against Moses and God heard their complaints and heeded their cries (Exodus 16:2-4). He is patient with us today–not wanting anyone to “perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).
I have known for some time now that patience is not one of my strong areas. I want something and I want it NOW–or as soon as possible. But God’s timetable is very different from our own. “But, beloved, do not forget this one thing, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day”–2 Peter 3:8.
See, the way that the world teaches us to think is so vastly different than how God wants us to think. The world tells us that if we don’t do this or have that by a certain age we are missing out and life is just passing us by. But friends, that is not the case. Life only passes you by when you don’t take advantage of the life you have been given. God’s plans for you are good (Jeremiah 29:11). You are His (1 Corinthians 3:23). Trust His promise to work all things for your good (Romans 8:28).
Sometimes God’s plans take time. He is patient with us; let’s be patient with Him and trust Him in all things (Proverbs 3:5-6). He’s got it covered.
Until next time,
Bailey Sue
