Monday, November 20, 2017

Patient Mercy (Isaiah 30:18)

Today’s scripture: Isaiah 30:18

It always blesses my heart when I read about God’s patience, especially those that speak to unbelievers. Several passages in the Bible speak to God’s waiting in order to be gracious and merciful.

One of my favorite verses of God’s patience—and one that brings hope when I pray for those who are not yet followers of Christ—is 2 Peter 3:9. I first memorized it years ago in the New American Standard Bible:
The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.
A few years ago, I came across this verse in the Contemporary English Version, and I think I like this one even better:
The Lord isn’t slow about keeping his promises, as some people think he is. In fact, God is patient, because he wants everyone to turn from sin and no one to be lost.
I, for one, am grateful that our God waits to show mercy for those who still haven’t found Him.

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