“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.”
2 Peter 3:9
I had a conversation with my mother one day. “Why do bad leaders live long but good people die early?” I asked after hearing the news of a national leader’s death. My mum gave a response that still stays with me to this day.
She said, “Life is not only about the number of days. God is patient because He is giving people time to turn back to Him.” She further explained that God does not rush to judge or condemn anyone because His heart is not willing that any should be lost.
I began to understand that the long years of life granted to some are not approval of wrongdoing, just as the early departure of others is not always punishment. If He has given you another day to live, it is not merely to continue on the same path but to turn your heart toward Him. The patience of redemption is the mercy that keeps calling your name, saying, “Come back. Be saved. Live.” Respond to His love today.
Charge: Every new day is a reminder of His mercy, every breath a testimony that God is still inviting you who is lost to come home. The purpose of the long rope He is giving you is not merely for you to live, but to come to repentance.
Further Study: Exodus 34:6; Isaiah 55:6-7; Ezekiel 18:23; Luke 15:7; Romans 2:4; John 3:16-17; Timothy 2:3-4.
