The last words of the apostle Peter in his second letter are worth considering. It’s interesting to note what is uppermost on his mind. First is his strong desire that we keep taking God at His word, that we cling to it, believe what He has said, and not be carried away by false teaching. Second, Peter wants us to live holy lives, keeping our eyes on eternity; not on what is temporal and soon to fade away. Third, Peter reminds us that “God is patient, not wanting anyone to perish. Instead, he wants everyone to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).

This concept—that God is patient, eager to lead people to repentance—isn’t anything new or original with Peter. You find the same thing in Paul’s writings, in the Gospels and the Old Testament. First and foremost on God’s heart and mind is His desire to reconcile individuals to Himself.

Someday, our bodies will fall apart. No amount of vitamins or exercise or medicine or surgery or replacement parts can prevent that from happening. But our souls and spirits, and new, resurrected bodies will live on forever. The question is whether it will be in God’s presence. That’s why the Bible says repeatedly that God doesn’t want anyone to perish (that is, to die forever). So pray with confidence, no matter how long it takes, for the salvation of your loved ones and friends.

This is LP.