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An Advent Promise


When Skeptics Scoff - Advent 2024 - Day 13

 

"Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: but the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness." (2 Peter 3:3-13 KJV)

 

"God's delays are not God's denials. His timing is perfect. His harvest comes at the exact moment when we most need it and when His glory will shine the brightest." - Christine Caine

 

As you rebuild your life, it’s common to encounter skepticism from those around you. People may doubt your commitment to sobriety, questioning whether real change is possible. This echoes the doubts faced by the early Christians, as noted in 2 Peter 3:3-13, where scoffers questioned the promise of Christ’s return. Peter reminds us that God's timing is not like ours; He is patient and longsuffering, desiring that all come to repentance.

Understanding God's Delays

Christine Caine beautifully articulates that "God's delays are not God's denials. His timing is perfect" [1]. This perspective is crucial for anyone on a recovery journey. Here’s how to navigate the skepticism and embrace patience:

  • Recognize the Skeptics: Just as Peter faced doubters, you may encounter voices that undermine your progress. Acknowledge these voices but don’t let them dictate your reality.

  • Faith in Action: Tony Evans states, "Faith is acting like something is so, even when it's not so, in order that it might be so, simply because God said so" [1]. This means that even when your recovery feels slow, you can trust that God is working behind the scenes.

Your Patience Truth

Every day you remain faithful to your recovery is a testament to your strength and resilience. Remember, God's apparent "slowness" is not a sign of absence; it is His abundant mercy at work, giving you and others time to find freedom.

Preparing Your Heart for Christmas

As we approach the Christmas season, consider these reflective questions:

  • Where do you need patience with God's timing? Identify areas in your life where you feel impatience or frustration.

  • Which skeptical voices need silencing? Determine who or what is causing doubt in your journey and how you can counteract that negativity.

  • How can you encourage others still waiting on their promises? Think about ways you can uplift those around you who are also navigating their own challenges.

Engagement Prompts

  • Share your "worth the wait" moment: Reflect on a time when patience led to a significant breakthrough in your life.

  • How are you growing during the delay? Consider the lessons you are learning while waiting for God's promises to unfold.

  • Drop a comment if you need patience and prayer: We are here to support one another in prayer and encouragement.

 

As you continue on your recovery journey, hold onto the truth that God’s timing is perfect. Embrace the process, knowing that every step you take is part of a greater plan. Your faithfulness will ultimately prove the skeptics wrong, and your testimony will shine brightly for others to see.

 

Join our waiting room at Central Bible Ministries - Mondays 9:30 AM or 6:30 PM. Hot meal and patient encouragement served.

 


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