Be Patient in Our Waiting

In contrast to Peter’s first letter, this one focused on problems that sprang up from inside the church. Its warning against false teachers is a teaching that is still applicable today.

2 Peter 3:8-9

8 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. 9 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.

10 But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. 

11 Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives 12 as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming.  That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. 13 But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.

Moses says this prayer to God

Psalm 90:1-4

1 Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. 2 Before the mountains were born

or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. 3 You turn people back to dust,

saying, “Return to dust, you mortals.” 4 A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by,

or like a watch in the night.

11 If only we knew the power of your anger! Your wrath is as great as the fear that is your due.

12 Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. 13 Relent, Lord! How long will it be?

Have compassion on your servants.