THE MERCY IN DELAY
“Concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered to him, we ask you, brothers and sisters, not to become easily unsettled or alarmed by the teaching allegedly from us—whether by a prophecy or by word of mouth or by letter—asserting that the day of the Lord has already come.” 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 NIV
Time and time again, from Jesus to the writings of the apostles, we are told not to worry about knowing the exact time of His return. This is not because it doesn’t matter, but because we are being warned against the temptation to perform rather than to live out true faith as our first nature.
In our theme scripture, Paul tells us there will be some who make a profession out of spreading such teachings, stirring fear, urgency, or confusion in the hearts of believers by claiming special knowledge or revelation. But Scripture gives us enough signs to stay awakened but not anxious.
If we are diligent and discerning, we can see many of those signs in our day, hence the apostles did not obsess over timelines but emphasized trust. The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise; He is patient and this delay is not neglect but mercy.
Child of God, this “slowness” is purposeful, giving space for repentance and salvation for many (2 Peter 3:9). Such is the heart of God.
As we wait, we do not waste time chasing predictions or being shaken by vain thoughts. We devote ourselves to the essential things: loving God, abiding in truth, walking in holiness, and building one another up in the faith.
The day of the Lord will come, but let it not find us merely informed. Let it find us faithful.
Prayer: My Father, I thank you for this wisdom. Anchor my heart in what matters most. Guard me from fear, distraction, and deception. You are my help and enable me to live with urgency but not panic, with readiness and not presumption. May I be found faithful, watching, and full of love when You return, in Jesus name, Amen.
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• Matthew 24:36
• Titus 2:11
• Hebrews 10:35
