Why God Waits

Why hasn’t Jesus returned yet? In this episode of FaithFuel, Bob Shaw looks at 2 Peter 3:9 and explains that what feels like delay is actually God’s patience.

This devotional brings a personal perspective to the question, reminding listeners that God’s timing is rooted in mercy. The same patience that allowed us to come to faith is still at work today, giving others that same opportunity.

Transcript

SPEAKER_00 0:00

Why hasn't Jesus come back yet? I'm Bob Shaw, and this is Faith Fuel. It's not something you think about all the time, but when it does come up, it's a fair question. Jesus said he would return. So what's taking so long? From our perspective, it can feel like a long time. But Scripture gives us a way to look at this that changes how we understand it. Second Peter 3 9 says, The Lord isn't really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent. God isn't dragging his feet, he's being patient. What feels like waiting to us is actually mercy. Every day that passes is another opportunity for someone to come to him. And here's where it becomes personal. Aren't you glad he waited for you? I'm glad he waited for me. If he had come in 1988, I would have been a sitting duck. And there was a time in your life where you hadn't yet come to Christ. A time when if everything had wrapped up right then, you wouldn't have been ready. But God was patient. He gave you time. He made room for that moment when you finally said yes to him. And he's still doing that for others right now. His timing isn't careless, it's compassionate, it's intentional. Habakkuk 2 3 says, This vision is for a future time. Though it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. God's promises are never forgotten. They unfold exactly when they're meant to. So when you think about the timing of God, it helps to see it this way. What feels like delay is actually grace. He's giving people the same opportunity he gave you. And one day, everything he has promised will come to pass. Right on time. Lord, thank you for your patience in our lives. Thank you for giving us time to come to you. Help us trust your timing even when we don't fully understand it. Give us a heart that reflects your desire for others to know you. In Jesus' name, Amen. If someone came to mind while you were listening, go ahead and send this to them. And follow the Faith Fuel with Bob Shaw podcast wherever you listen for scripture centered encouragement you can carry into your day. Until next time, peace and joy.