When God Seems Slow

“The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” — 

2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)

I think of myself as a patient person—except when waiting for something to heat in the microwave, or my pour-over coffee to drain in the morning. Okay, let’s say that patience may not be my greatest virtue. Today’s verse is written to a church growing impatient.

Depending on whether the Apostle Peter wrote the letter himself or a later follower wrote it in his name, 2 Peter was composed somewhere between 30 and 120 years after Jesus’ death—either in the mid‑60s as Peter faced martyrdom, or more commonly in the late first century as the early church struggled with false teaching and the long wait for Christ’s return.

Whenever we date it, the world around them was shaking: persecution, political turmoil, and—by the later period—the destruction of the Temple. But beneath all of that was a deeper spiritual ache. The first believers had lived with the conviction that Christ’s return was imminent, that it could happen at any moment. As the years stretched on, their confidence wavered. They were asking the same question we often ask: How long, Lord? And the letter answers with a call to trust, patience, and steady faith.

The author promises that just because it hasn’t happened yet, it doesn’t mean it won’t. God has promised, God is faithful to his promise, and it will happen. So why is he not coming? For those who are fed up with the mess humanity has made of the world, and who claim Christ as our King, it seems like a pretty good idea. We’re ready, Lord—take us away from here. But again, God thinks differently; his ways are above our ways. By his grace, he is taking his time so that as many as possible may turn toward life.

And this is where the work is handed to us. If God is patient because He longs for more people to turn toward life, then we—His voices, His hands, His feet—are part of that mercy. The waiting isn’t empty. It’s filled with opportunity. We carry the good news of Jesus Christ into a world that’s still aching for hope, adding our witness to the slow, steady work of God’s Kingdom.

So, as we grow impatient—toe tapping in front of the microwave, minds wandering in front of the coffee maker—take a breath and remember that God’s timing is not neglect but mercy. The waiting we feel is the very space where God is still gathering people in. Every moment of delay is another moment of grace, another chance for someone to turn toward hope. The God who keeps His promises is still keeping them, even when the waiting feels long. And in that waiting, He is shaping us into people who trust Him and join Him in His patient, saving work.

Gracious and merciful God, thank you for your perfect timing. Grant us strength in the waiting and courage in sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. May our ministry and our witness be fruitful in adding to your Kingdom. Amen.

Grace & Peace,

Pastor Tim