In times of cultural breakdown and looming terror, the delay of God's promises can weigh heavily on the heart. Proverbs 13:12 warns that hope deferred makes the heart sick, and a frustrated, anxious spirit can grow weary from constant discouragement amid mankind's violence and greed. Revelation 6:10 echoes this anguish, as saints cry out from their graves, asking how long, O Lord, holy and true, until You judge and avenge their blood on those who dwell on earth. God often delays answering or providing the good that, based on His Word, we have justifiable hope to receive. David, in Psalm 22:1-2, expresses this struggle, crying out to God in desperation, feeling forsaken as He seems far from helping. Yet, David's internal hope remained steadfast, anchored in the pure and unchanging character of God and His promises. Psalm 22:19-21 reveals that God eventually answered David, not because he fully deserved it, but because He is merciful and because David was being prepared for what lies ahead within His purpose. This delay is not due to meanness or distraction on God's part; as Creator, He knows far better than we can imagine what each individual needs to fit precisely into His creation, and even He requires time to develop those qualities within us.

The delay in the execution of penalties for evil actions often emboldens individuals to persist in wrongdoing. As King Solomon wisely noted, because the sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, the heart of the sons of men is fully set to do evil. Though a sinner may commit evil repeatedly and their days are prolonged, it remains certain that it will be well with those who fear God and stand in reverence before Him. This delay in consequence fosters a lack of fear and obedience toward Him, leading individuals to choose immoral behavior, for which they bear personal responsibility.

As the first century drew to a close, some in the church began to question why Jesus Christ had not yet returned to establish His Kingdom. Many listened to cynics and mockers, leading to a crisis of faith. In our day, scoffers both inside and outside the church spread ideas that the return of Jesus Christ as King of kings is far off. Members who accept these notions often wonder if they are true, and some believe them, letting down their guard and drifting away. Agreeing with the idea that the Lord delays His coming takes a heavy spiritual toll, eliminating the motivation to overcome sinful human nature and prepare for God's Kingdom. Thinking there are many years before His return causes believers to relax their determination to be transformed into Christ's image, reduce their excitement and anticipation for His Kingdom, and ignore their sins. The very act of believing judgment is delayed brings violence and destruction nearer and swifter. When humans think they have escaped the consequences of sin, their hearts become calloused, leading to more and worse sin, and ultimately to distress, destruction, and death. If we say, My Master is delaying His coming, we are likely to veer off the path of righteousness and abuse the brethren.