2nd.Peter 3:9 "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."
Many have a distorted view concerning WHO GOD is and what HE is like. Some see HIM as an ogre, eager to inflict harsh, cruel punishment upon the world. Today's text, however, refutes this false notion. GOD is presently delaying HIS judgment that will take place when the Day of the LORD commences so more sinners (of which we all are) can be saved before that terrible Day dawns. HE is patient toward fallen humanity. HE does not desire to send mankind to the Lake of Fire; rather, HE wants people to be saved ! This is a truth that the prophet Ezekiel likewise recorded (Ezekiel 18:32; Ezekiel 33:11 pictured above).
Keep in mind that while everyone is born bearing GOD's image (Genesis 1:26; 5:1-2), man also has received the fallen nature of Adam (Romans 5:12; 1st.Corinthians 15:22 pictured above). What sin has done to the creation in terms of corrupting and perverting the previously perfect world is tragic, but its effect upon the crown of GOD's creation--mankind--is absolutely appalling. GOD did not design for sin to enter the world, but as the omniscient, eternal CREATOR, HE was not surprised by man's fall and planned accordingly (1st.Peter 1:19-20).
Today, many believers fail to take sin seriously, as evidenced by how they live out the profession of their faith. Amazingly, sin is not a big deal to some Christians. Their attitude seems to be: "GOD will forgive me. After all, that is what HE is supposed to do." Such thinking reveals a woeful misunderstanding of GOD's WORD and a sad misconception of the person of GOD. While it is true that HE forgives us when we fail, HE ultimately desires HIS children to live holy lives and to avoid sin in the first place (1st.Peter 1:16 pictured above). He is longsuffering with this unbelieving world and with us as well ! GDF
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used with permission. www.featoday.org
https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation
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