6/12/17 Deandre early 20's
Of the two friends I talked to at the park, one was sure God exists and that there is some sort of life beyond this one. Deandre, early 20's, observed that we can lose our life at any time for no good reason, that there must be more to our existence than that. And he should know - six months ago he was shot 8 times and almost died, but here he is today wiser for the experience.
I told Deandre what I tell many people regardless of whether they've had a near-death experience or not - that God has a purpose for our continued existence. We deserve death due to our sins against him, but the Lord in his mercy delays the judgment and punishment we deserve. We read in 2 Peter 3: "Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance…"
Deandre agreed that God has gotten his attention - especially compared with his friend who had wandered away by this point in our conversation, not wanting to talk about such things. But is it enough that God simply "has our attention", as if acknowledging his existence is somehow doing him a favor?
James 2 says "You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder."
Why do the demons shudder? Because they knows that along with God's existence also comes our accountability to him. Yes there is good news - the Lord is merciful, delaying our punishment and making a way for salvation through repentance and faith in Jesus. But that way isn't open forever.
The passage of God's mercy in 2 Peter continues on with a warning: "…But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare."
God may have your attention. But is it enough to heed his warning?
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