Time is Running Out

Everyday disciples of Jesus have been commissioned. They are on a mission to multiply disciples of Jesus. They are committed to growing God’s kingdom by sharing the good news about Jesus and discipling those who respond. This Plan explores the urgency of our mission and the opportunity we have to reap the harvest that God has planned.

Please note that this Plan offers more than a daily reflection on Scripture. It is designed to forge everyday disciples who are aware of God’s presence and hear God’s voice throughout the day. Please try to build the lunchtime meditations and evening reflections into your routine, as well as the morning devotions. Before each session, pause to be aware of God’s love and presence.

MORNING

Read 2 Peter 3:8-10

Devotion

Many of the early Christians had a strong expectation of Jesus’ imminent return to earth. As persecution of the church increased, it seemed to them that Jesus would fulfil His promises, rescue His people, and hold their rebellious world accountable. They were motivated to endure because they believed that Jesus was about to intervene. But when Peter was writing this letter almost 40 years after Christ’s resurrection, things were getting tougher for the church and there was still no sign of Christ coming back to rescue and judge. Consequently, “scoffers” (3:3) were making fun of the Christians’ hope in God’s power to intervene. These doubters were attacking God’s sovereignty and trustworthiness. Well, here we are almost 2000 years later, and still Jesus has not returned. Perhaps you too wonder what God is doing. This Scripture gives us some insights.

The seeming delay of Christ’s return is not because he doesn’t care or is powerless to do anything. No way. He has intervened before, and He certainly will do so again. Jesus’ wonderful (for Christians) and catastrophic (for our world) return and judgment are on the horizon (3:10). There is no doubt about that. But Peter tells us about the Lord’s heart. He just loves those rejecting him so deeply that He wants them all to be saved. That’s why Jesus waits. It’s because God longs for your friends and family and coworkers and neighbors to receive him.

This deep desire for lost people to be saved drives God’s plan for His world. It’s His priority. We might see rebellion, arrogance, and evil, but the Lord mostly sees broken and separated people who need his salvation. He is incredibly loving and patient. His passion is for more people to be saved. This passion becomes the passion of everyday disciples of Jesus. Time is running out. “The day of the Lord will come like a thief” (3:10). Our friends, family and neighbors need Jesus before it’s too late.

Prayer

Lord, please place Your heart for the lost in me. Keep reminding me of why I’m on this earth. I pray that the lost people around me will see your grace in my life and will be drawn to repent of their living without You. I’m not sure when You will say, “Enough is enough,” but, like You, I desperately want those You have put in my life to be with us forever. Please use me Lord.

Today’s Bible Focus

“Not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to repent.”

LUNCHTIME (or when you can make a moment during the day)

1. Meditate for a short time on today’s Bible Focus. Let it seep into your heart.

2. Look and see what is happening around you from God’s perspective and listen to see whether God is whispering anything to you.

3. Pray for any not-yet Christians God has placed on your heart.

EVENING

1. Remember: Repeat today’s Bible Focus.

2. Reflect: Reflect on the day and thank God for what He has said and done.

3. Repent: Check where you have neglected or disobeyed God during the day and ask for forgiveness and freedom.

4. Release: Name any concerns or fears on your mind and release them to Jesus.