Friday 18 September 2026
- Bible Book:
- 2 Peter
What sort of people ought you to be in leading lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God? (vs 11-12)
Background
In yesterday’s Bible passage, Peter spoke of those who will mock the people’s faith in the second coming of Jesus and he warned of a final judgement of fire.
In today’s Bible passage, Peter said not to ignore the fact that with God "one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day" (verse 8). In other words, God is outside time and the delay of Jesus’ coming is not a failure to be mocked.
‘The day of the Lord’ (the coming of Jesus) will happen, just as a thief comes in the night, suddenly and when it is least expected. People must prepare for the day of the Lord but there is no timetable. God is not slow, but patient. God doesn’t want anyone to perish in judgement. God wants time for all people to repent (be sincerely sorry for their sins, the things they have done wrong). While they are looking forward to a new world, and the promise of something better, God will renew and remake the earth; “new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness is at home.” (v. 13) Peter calls the believers to a different way of living, one of holiness and godliness. They are to maintain the ways of Christian living that were outlined in chapter 1 (2 Peter 1:5-11). A new world is promised to believers in Revelation (Revelation 21:1-4).
To Ponder:
- God’s timing is not our timing. In what ways has this been evident in your life?
- As you study this Bible passage, do you feel called to a different way of living?
Prayer
Holy and gracious God, help us to be patient, knowing that you answer our prayers in your time and not ours. May we be patient with others, giving them our time and full attention. Help us to live a life of holiness and godliness that is pleasing to you. Amen.
Bible Notes Author: The Revd Ann Fox
The Revd Fox is Superintendent Minister of Tadcaster Circuit and a member of the District Leadership Team (Yorkshire North & East). She is called to serve alongside others and enjoys care for older people, hearing people’s stories, and receiving inspiration from children and young people.