DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT: GOD'S PLAN IS ON TIME

 

"But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.  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 3:8-9

    We need hope. Discouragement during the perilous times of this world threaten to dominate our thoughts. Dwelling on the evil times has the effect of bringing discouragement and down right sadness. This negative emotions can grow to become heavy burdens such as anxiety. If our lives are anchored in the promises of God, we are able to turn away from this and find hope that does not disappoint. A large theme of all of scripture is that God has a plan. We are to constantly look to the Lord for the fulfillment of this plan that brings complete redemption for Christians and judgment to all that is in opposition to the one true God and His Kingdom. As we wait for the fulfillment of the plan to completion. we must meditate and find comfort in the promises of God. In Christ our promise from God is the completion of salvation with deliverance into His eternal Kingdom in Heaven. Patience is the important factor in this passage above. God is not slow or behind schedule. With every piece of bad news and tragic occurrence of evil, we are faced with the inevitable presence of darkness leading to discouragement. God's patience is for the purpose of more coming to repentance. This for more individuals that will be a part of His Kingdom to come to salvation through saving faith in the one and only Savior Jesus Christ. His patience is also for more time for the church (God's people) to work His goodness through the spread of Gospel and ongoing discipleship. His patience is His gracious giving of opportunity to run from sin and embrace Him. We must make the best use of this time with hope. (Ephesians 5:15-16) Since nothing is out of His control and He is not behind on His plan, we must continue to try to live out His purpose until He comes with perseverance. His promises are certain so our hope in Him is certain and not in vain. Let's resist the ensnarement of discouragement by decisively turning to the Lord in faithfulness trusting in the hope of His promises.