October 3, 2004

Don't Despair, Share

Be diligent to be found by Him in peace, without spot and blameless. —2 Peter 3:14

Bible In One Year: Isaiah 17-19; Ephesians 5:17-33

During these days of horrific world events, Christians should be appalled but not taken by surprise. Jesus forewarned us of terrible times to come (Luke 21:25-28). In today's reading, Peter reassured believers by reminding them of God's unfolding purposes and final victory.

The apostle described ungodly scoffers, who in the last days will say, "Where is the promise of His coming?" (2 Peter 3:4). We too may wonder why Christ doesn't come back and change things now. Peter affirmed that the Lord "is not slack concerning His promise," but delays His return to give people everywhere more time to repent (v.9).

We mustn't forget that "with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day" (v.8). Eventually the day of the Lord will come, bringing a judgment of consuming fire. This will be followed by a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness and of God's forgiven people (v.13).

As we anticipate that triumphant day, we must live consistent, holy lives (v.14), resist all evil influences (v.17), and grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ (v.18). Then, instead of despairing over evil, we will be able to share the good news of Jesus with the world. —Joanie Yoder

We know not when the Lord may come
To right the wrongs of this old earth,
But this we know—He's left us here
To share good news of second birth. —Hess

We don't know what this world is coming to, but we know the One who is coming to this world.