Someone not long ago expressed to me they believed there was not much difference between procrastination and patience; it depended on one’s perspective. That is an idea to which I have continued to give some thought and am still not sure I am ready to accept the concept. Perhaps the struggle I have relates to how another’s procrastination impacts my own impatience. It is true someone may put something off for a while and eventually accomplish it. That timing may be fine for them while seemingly not fast enough for others.
God appears to be viewed in somewhat the same manner. However, though time may continue moving on, I do not see God as a procrastinator, but rather as One Who has a definite plan. It is just that His timing is not the same as ours. What needs to be acknowledged is the blessing His seeming slowness actually is!
After noting those who would scoffingly ask, “Where is the promise of his coming?” (2 Peter 3:3-4), Peter when on to state. . .
“(8) 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. (9) 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 ESV)
Time with God is not the same as with us. Compared to the length of eternity, the fulfillment of the promise of our Lord’s return and the judgment of all is not slow in coming. God’s patience made evident with each new day He provides is the needed opportunity to repent because He has fixed a day when the world will be judged! (Acts 17:30-31) Looking at time from God’s perspective we should understand His patience is not slowness, but rather blessed opportunity to repent and thus be prepared for the judgment to come! Though we might not always understand it, may we appreciate all the blessings associated with His timing.
Have a great day APPROPRIATELY RESPONDING TO GOD’S PATIENCE!
Carl
