New? February 8 Devotional
February 08, 2025
2 PETER 3:9, 15 | 9 The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance.
15 and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation. So also our beloved brother Paul wrote to you according to the wisdom given to him
The scoffers miss our present experience of the kingdom and our King through the Holy Spirit. The spirit of Christ enlivens us with divine zoe. We become the first fruits of a new creation, the first citizens of a new order, the new creatures of a fresh creation which is fully revealed when Jesus returns. The word Return can hide the reality that Jesus is present now through this spirit.
They also disregard the beautiful, holy, and challenging purpose for the delayed final return in the flesh: salvation. The delay makes room for the mission of the church.
People matter, in all their struggles and with all their flaws—they matter to God, who wills their return to Him, their repentance and inclusion in his redemption. The delay is a gift to those who do turn to Him in faith, as well as to those who seek to enable that turning through prayer, witness, service, and loving connection.
Are you motivated to spread faith and the experience of salvation?
Gracious God,
Give me an urgency to see others find the faith and joy I have experienced in You.
Amen.
