In response to the challenges that come from waiting, Peter reminds us that the Lord is patient. We should understand that the delay in judgment is due to God’s mercy. The Lord is giving people time to hear the gospel and be reconciled to him. Specifically, given the context of the letter, he is giving time for Christian believers who have walked away from the faith to come back.
Now there are lots of reasons why some believers might walk away from God. Perhaps we were confused and disheartened by the teachings of heretics. Maybe we are tired of pursuing godliness and fighting sin. The Christian life is not easy. Praise God for his mercy in giving (us) time to turn from sin and come back to Christ. Praise God that Jesus’ return is delayed so that wandering sheep can be brought back into the herd. Just consider if Christ returned before you heard the gospel or when you were dead in your sin? Aren’t you glad there is a delay?
8 But do not overlook this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.