Verse of the Day: 2 Peter 3:9
Verse of the Day
Saturday, June 28, 2025
2 Peter 3:9
The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance.
Introduction
At first glance, this verse may appear to address a delay—but in truth, it speaks volumes about the heart of God. 2 Peter 3:9 is a powerful assurance that God's apparent delay in fulfilling His promises is not due to indifference, but rather a divine patience rooted in mercy and love. In a world that demands instant answers, this verse reminds us that God's timing is not human timing—and His desire is for redemption, not retribution.
Commentary
“The Lord is not slow about his promise…”
Peter addresses the skepticism of those questioning the Second Coming of Christ. The “promise” refers to the return of Christ and the final judgment. What appears to be “slowness” is, in truth, purposeful delay.
“…as some think of slowness…”
This clarifies that the perceived delay is subjective. Human impatience leads some to assume God is late or has forgotten His word, but this is a misjudgment of divine wisdom.
“…but is patient with you…”
The Greek word for "patient" (μακροθυμέω makrothymeō) carries the sense of long-suffering and endurance. God bears with humanity not out of obligation, but out of compassion.
“…not wanting any to perish…”
God’s desire is not destruction but salvation. The phrase reflects God’s inclusive love—a will that none should be lost.
“…but all to come to repentance.”
Repentance is the pathway to life, and God’s patience offers space for change. The verse does not teach universal salvation, but it does express a universal invitation to grace.
Understanding the Context
This verse is part of Peter’s response to scoffers who question why Christ hasn’t returned (2 Peter 3:3–4). The early church, already waiting decades for the Parousia (Second Coming), faced criticism and doubts. Peter reminds believers that God's delay is not forgetfulness, but mercy. He anchors this in the character of God, who transcends time (v.8) and acts out of holy intention. Peter warns of coming judgment, but here highlights the divine patience that holds it back—not to prolong suffering, but to provide opportunity for repentance.
Application for Today
In an age of immediate gratification and rapid change, many struggle with the patience of God. We may wonder why evil persists, or why justice seems slow in coming. This verse calls believers to reframe that tension: God's timing is a mercy, not a flaw. It also challenges us to reflect on our own readiness. Are we using this divine pause to grow in faith, extend forgiveness, share the Gospel, and examine our hearts? God’s patience is not passive—it is an active grace that calls us to transformation.
Reflection
God’s patience is not a sign of inaction but a profound expression of love. If judgment came immediately, many—including ourselves—might never have the opportunity to repent or be transformed. This verse invites a sobering awareness: we live in a season of mercy. Each passing day is not a delay of justice but a chance for grace to reach more hearts. Rather than growing impatient with God, we’re called to appreciate the divine pause—a space in which lives are still being redeemed, including our own.
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible, copyright © 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Verse of the Day is a daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse extracted from BibleGateway.com. Commentary by Kenny Sallee, ThM.
