The phrase God does not count slackness originates from 2 Peter 39, a verse that reveals the patience and faithfulness of God toward humanity. It addresses a common human misunderstanding of divine timing. Many people, both in ancient times and today, question why God seems to delay fulfilling His promises. Yet Scripture reminds us that God’s timing is perfect and purposeful. He does not forget or postpone His word out of neglect or weakness. Instead, His delay reflects His mercy, giving everyone the opportunity to repent and turn toward Him before the day of judgment arrives.
Understanding the Meaning of God Does Not Count Slackness
The full verse in 2 Peter 39 (KJV) reads, 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. This statement was written to early Christians who were growing impatient, wondering when Jesus would return as promised. Peter reassures them that God is not slow or negligent. His seeming delay is actually a demonstration of divine patience.
The word slackness in this verse means slowness, laziness, or delay caused by neglect. When Peter says God does not count slackness as men do, he contrasts human impatience with divine wisdom. People measure time by days and years, but God operates beyond human understanding. He is not bound by human schedules. What may appear as a delay is, in reality, an act of compassion and divine timing.
Context of 2 Peter 39
To grasp the full meaning of this verse, it helps to look at the context of the chapter. In 2 Peter 3, the apostle addresses scoffers people mocking the idea of Christ’s second coming. They questioned, Where is the promise of his coming? because, in their view, everything continued as it had since creation. Peter responds by reminding them that just as God once judged the world with a flood, He will again bring judgment, this time by fire. But God’s delay does not mean He has forgotten. Rather, it shows His mercy and desire that all people have time to repent.
This passage emphasizes two powerful truths God keeps His promises, and His patience has a redemptive purpose. God does not count slackness is therefore not about divine slowness but about divine love. He waits because He wants to save.
The Nature of God’s Patience
God’s patience, or longsuffering, is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. It is one of His defining attributes. Unlike human beings, who often act hastily out of frustration, God’s patience stems from His mercy and desire for righteousness. He gives humanity countless chances to turn from sin and accept His grace.
Romans 24 echoes this truth Despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? The delay in God’s judgment is not weakness it is grace. His patience is an open door for repentance, extended even to those who mock or doubt Him.
God’s Promise and Human Perception of Time
Another key point in 2 Peter 3 is the reminder that God’s perception of time differs completely from ours. In verse 8, Peter says, One day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. This statement teaches that God exists outside of time. What seems like a long wait to humans may be nothing to Him. His plans unfold at the perfect moment according to His eternal wisdom.
When people assume that God is slow or has forgotten His promise, they reveal a limited understanding of His nature. God’s plans are never rushed and never delayed. His timing fulfills His purpose perfectly. The apparent slackness that humans perceive is actually a reflection of their impatience, not a flaw in God’s faithfulness.
The Faithfulness of God’s Promises
Throughout Scripture, God’s promises always come to pass. From the covenant with Abraham to the coming of the Messiah, God’s word never fails. Joshua 2145 declares, There failed not ought of any good thing which the Lord had spoken unto the house of Israel; all came to pass. Likewise, the second coming of Christ will surely happen, just as God said it would. The certainty of His promises should inspire believers to remain steadfast and faithful, even when fulfillment seems distant.
The Purpose Behind God’s Delay
Why does God delay certain promises or allow events to unfold slowly from a human point of view? The answer lies in His compassion and redemptive plan. The delay in judgment allows time for more people to hear the gospel and come to repentance. God’s desire is not for destruction but for salvation. He patiently waits so that none will perish without the chance to receive His grace.
This understanding should shift the believer’s perspective from frustration to gratitude. God’s patience means more opportunities for mercy. Each day that the world continues is another day for someone to be saved. Thus, God does not count slackness becomes a message of hope rather than disappointment.
Examples of Divine Patience in the Bible
The Bible provides numerous examples of God’s patience and faithfulness throughout history. These stories illustrate how His timing, though sometimes difficult for people to understand, always accomplishes His purpose
- Noah’s GenerationBefore sending the flood, God gave people 120 years to repent while Noah built the ark (Genesis 63). His patience was long, but eventually judgment came.
- Abraham and SarahGod promised them a son, yet they waited decades before Isaac was born. His timing tested their faith but fulfilled His promise perfectly.
- The Israelites in EgyptGod delayed their deliverance for 400 years, yet He fulfilled His word through Moses at the appointed time.
- The Coming of JesusProphets foretold the Messiah centuries before His birth. Galatians 44 says, When the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son.
These examples remind believers that God’s plans are never late. What appears to be a delay is often preparation for something greater.
Human Impatience vs. Divine Purpose
Humans naturally struggle with waiting. We live in a world that values instant results and quick answers. When prayers go unanswered or promises seem delayed, it’s easy to assume that God is being slack. However, faith requires patience. Hebrews 1036 tells us, For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
God’s apparent slowness is never due to neglect. He is actively working behind the scenes, aligning events according to His plan. When believers trust in His timing, they demonstrate true faith. The waiting period often strengthens character, deepens reliance on God, and refines the heart for what is to come.
What Believers Can Learn
The message that God does not count slackness teaches several lessons for daily life and faith
- Trust in God’s TimingEven when His promises seem delayed, remember that He never forgets.
- Appreciate His PatienceGod’s delay often provides opportunities for growth, repentance, and deeper faith.
- Live ExpectantlyThe certainty of His return should inspire holy living and readiness.
- Share His MessageBecause God delays judgment for the sake of salvation, believers should use the time to spread the gospel.
Recognizing that God is patient not out of neglect but love changes how we view both His promises and our responsibilities.
The Assurance of God’s Word
Ultimately, God does not count slackness is a reminder of His unwavering reliability. He is not a man that He should lie or forget His word (Numbers 2319). Every promise He makes will be fulfilled, whether in this life or the next. Believers can rest assured that God’s delays are never denials. His promises unfold with perfect precision according to His divine plan.
The apostle Peter’s words continue to speak to modern believers facing doubt and impatience. Just as the early Christians were urged to hold fast, so too must we. God’s faithfulness is certain, and His timing, though mysterious, always reveals His mercy.
The Perfect Patience of God
The declaration that God does not count slackness reminds humanity that divine timing operates beyond human understanding. God’s patience is not a sign of weakness but of love. His mercy delays judgment so that more people might experience salvation through Jesus Christ. Every moment of waiting reflects His desire that none should perish.
For the believer, this truth calls for faith, endurance, and gratitude. God’s promises are sure, His word is true, and His patience is purposeful. Though it may seem that God delays, He is always working, always faithful, and always on time. Indeed, God does not count slackness He fulfills every promise at the perfect moment for His glory and our good.