Second Peter tells us… “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some count slowness, but is long-suffering toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
This verse emphasizes God’s patience and his desire for all people to turn to him rather than being perceived as slow to fulfill his promise. But, while God is long-suffering, Scripture also reveals that it isn’t infinite. There are consequences for persistent disobedience and sin. Paul warns of rejecting God’s kindness and patience in Romans 2:4-5. We see God’s patience leading to repentance, but a persistent hard heart leading to judgment.
Scripture consistently affirms from Genesis to Revelation that there is a point where God’s patience ends. However, he is the only one who can judge a man’s heart and motivations. He longs for everyone to come to him in repentance and humility and to continually ask for forgiveness because we all fall short of his glory. We are also called to patiently endure, keep the faith, and love like Jesus loves, but the final word, consequences, and judgment are his and only his.
Rev. 2:19: “I know your works, your love and faith and service and patient endurance, and that your latter works exceed the first.”
Father, you are holy, merciful and gracious. Thank you for being patient with me/us, but holding us accountable and reminding us that sin has consequences. “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Amen.
Deb Hill
EFCC Member