Lent - Day 34

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 reach repentance.  (2 Peter 3:9, ESV)

I love the patience of God. It is fascinating how the love of God cuts both ways; He not only shows me mercy and grace, but he also shows my enemies the same mercy and grace. His forgiveness is not just towards me, but it is offered to everyone. Now in my selfish and self-centred thinking I can think God is being unfair, however He is God and He is love, and He is being the most fair.

Although in our sin of pride, we like to think we are better than others, or at least better than some of the others if not most, as we all know, the reality is that when it comes to wickedness and deservedness of eternal punishment we are all in the same boat. It is necessary that I am able to forgive those that sin against me, since I am guilty of the same crime.

I love it how Jesus makes it a point to pray: Forgive our sins, Lord as we forgive those that sin against us. Our forgiveness is directly linked to our willingness to forgive others. Often times it takes a moment to really forgive those that hurt us and this is where the patience of God comes into play for each of us.

I love it that He is not slow, but is being patient with us because His desire is that none should perish. Thank you Jesus!