MARCH 23, 2 Peter 2:9

In yesterday’s devotion, you learnt about how vexed Lot was over Sodom’s sins. It was Lot’s own decision in choosing to stay in Sodom that brought about vexation upon him. You also learnt that as a Christian, you will feel vexed or troubled when you see evil around you. This is despite the fact that you did not choose to be where evil is present. Some of you may be troubled for example, by ungodly behaviour of other children whether in school or elsewhere. You must realise that the world that we live in is waxing worse and worse in evil and we will see more and more of it in the days to come.

Today’s verse provides great encouragement to Christians who are vexed or troubled. 2 Peter 2:9a says, “The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation...” God knows how to deliver us out of our troubles. Just as he delivered Lot from Sodom, He is certainly able to deliver you and me out of our troubles.The Bible also tells us that God will not let trials and temptations to overwhelm us (1 Corinthians 10:13). He will provide us with grace to bear. This is because God loves His children.

You may wonder why the wicked who commit evil deeds seem to escape unpunished. Does that also make you wonder whether God had forgotten their misdeeds? Well, God is a just God. 2 Peter 2:9b tells us “... and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished.” Even if the unjust or wicked appear to be unpunished in their life on earth, God reserves them or keeps them for the day of judgment. When the Lord returns in His Second Coming, He will certainly punish the rebellious and unrepentant sinners. Their punishment will be swift and sure.

Thought: God loves me and cares for me!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the assurance that You care for the godly and will punish the wicked. May I look forward to the soon return of my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.