Connect Romans 2:4 with another scripture about God's patience and mercy. The Thread of Divine Patience “Or do you disregard the riches of His kindness, tolerance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you to repentance?” “The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.” Key Connections • Same destination: repentance – Romans 2:4 says kindness “leads” us there. – 2 Peter 3:9 shows patience “wants” us there. • Same divine attribute: patience expressed as delay – Romans exposes our temptation to “disregard” that delay. – Peter explains the delay as purposeful, not procrastination. • Same motive: mercy over judgment – God’s “riches” (Romans) and “not wanting anyone to perish” (Peter) reveal a heart eager to forgive. Seeing the Riches of His Kindness 1. Kindness: God acts for our good even when we rebel. 2. Tolerance: He holds back immediate judgment. 3. Patience: He gives time for hearts to soften. Tracing the Pattern Through Scripture • Exodus 34:6—“The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger…” • Psalm 103:8—“The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion.” • Isaiah 30:18—“Therefore the LORD longs to be gracious to you; therefore He rises to show you compassion.” These echoes reinforce that patience is not a New-Testament innovation but God’s consistent posture. Responding to His Patience Today • Acknowledge: Thank Him for delays that spared you. • Examine: Ask where you’ve “disregarded” His mercy. • Turn: Repent quickly; patience is generous but not endless. • Share: Tell others that His waiting is an open door, not indifference. Living in the Light of Mercy • Confidence—Judgment belongs to a God whose first move is grace. • Humility—We stand only because He waited. • Urgency—Because He waits, we mustn’t. |
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