Taking His Time

When we tried Yahoo poker several years ago to get our feet wet in the game, there was a player with the notorious name "IPlayRealSlow."  He lived up to that name -- as he was somehow able to frustrate other players and shut down tables by taking extra time to make decisions.

In real poker tournaments, "slow play" can be an effective strategy.  For example, if you're dealt pocket Aces, you might limp along and let other people become overconfident by betting against you.

Along the same lines, sometimes God's ways can seem terribly slow to us.  We noted in our last post the mocking of scoffers waiting for Jesus to come again.  The apostle Peter responded to such talk:

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. - II Peter 3:8

Some scientists have estimated the universe may be 13 billion years old.  Some "creation science" supporters contend life on Earth is no more than 6,000 years old.  Whichever view you believe, the planet has been around far longer than we have.

The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some men understand slowness.  He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. - II Peter 3:9

God may seem slow.  But then again, maybe our lives simply are going by so fast.

Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow.  What is your life?   You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. - James 4:14

Since our physical time on Earth is short, we should take advantage of God's amazing offer of eternal life through Jesus Christ.  Accept His offer, and then....

....You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming.... So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with him. - II Peter 3:11-12, 15

Many have guessed at the time of "the end of the world," and been wrong.  But we need to be ready for the return of Jesus Christ, whenever it happens.  And since most of us don't know when we'll cross "the river" of life, it's best to turn to Him as soon as possible.