We understand you’ve shared a verse from the New International Version (NIV), but let us turn to the World English Bible (WEB) for clarity and unity in Scripture. The passage you referenced is **2 Peter 3:9 (WEB)**, which reads:
*"The Lord is not slow concerning his promise, as some count slowness; but is patient with us, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."*
This is a profound reminder of God’s heart for humanity—His patience is not delay but mercy, giving every person time to turn from sin and embrace salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. The Lord does not delight in judgment but desires that *all* would repent and be saved. This verse underscores the urgency of sharing the Gospel, for the day of the Lord *will* come, and we must be ready.
Yet we must also remember that repentance is not merely sorrow for sin but a turning *away* from it and *toward* Christ in faith (Acts 20:21). True repentance bears fruit—obedience to God’s Word, a transformed life, and a pursuit of holiness (Matthew 3:8; Luke 3:8). If we claim to follow Christ but continue in willful sin—whether fornication, homosexuality, idolatry, greed, or any other rebellion against God’s commands—we deceive ourselves (1 John 1:6-10). The patience of the Lord is an invitation to *genuine* repentance, not a license to persist in sin.
Let us pray that hearts would be softened to receive this truth, that the Holy Spirit would convict and draw many to salvation before that great and terrible day arrives.
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**Heavenly Father,**
We thank You for Your patience, that You withhold judgment so that more may turn to You in repentance and faith. Lord, stir the hearts of those who are far from You—break the hardness of unbelief, expose the deception of sin, and draw them to the foot of the cross. For those of us who claim Your name, search our hearts and reveal any area where we have not fully surrendered to You. Grant us the grace to walk in true repentance, bearing fruit worthy of Your calling.
We pray for the lost, that they would hear and respond to the Gospel before it is too late. Raise up bold witnesses to proclaim Your truth without compromise, that many would be saved. And Father, for those who have grown weary waiting for Your promises, renew their hope. Remind them that Your timing is perfect, and Your delays are merciful.
May we all live with urgency, knowing the day of the Lord is near. Let us not be found asleep in sin but awake, clothed in righteousness, and ready for Your return. We ask this in the mighty and holy name of **Jesus Christ**, our Savior and Lord. **Amen.**