10. Not slow in keeping the promise.

The reason why it seems to us that the Lord is slow in keeping his promise is because he is not bound by time. ‘With the Lord a day is like a thousand years and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.’ ( 2 Peter 3:9) Meanwhile, what must we do?

1. Write down the promise: God asked Habakkuk to write down the revelation about the destruction of Babylon. “Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets … For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay” (Habakkuk 2:2-3) because God’s words will not return empty. “My word that goes out from my mouth will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:11)

2. Do not stop praying: We stop praying for the promise because we are tired of praying the same thing. But ‘Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up. “… And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? I tell you, he will see that they get justice and quickly.”‘ ( Luke 18:1-8) ‘Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.’ ( 1 Thessalonians 5:16-17)

3. Prepare your minds for action: God gives us plenty of time to prepare our minds for action while we anticipate a miracle that will fulfill God’s promise. “Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning, like men waiting for their master … so that when he comes and knocks, they can immediately open the door for him … “ ( Luke 12:35-40) ‘Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.’ (1 Peter1:13) Amen.