"Thus says the Lord, 'Let not the one who is wise boast in his insight; let not the one who is mighty boast in his strength; let not the one who is rich boast in his abundance; but let the one who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me… that I am the Lord who practices lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on the earth, for in these things I delight,' says the Lord." — Jeremiah 9:23-24
For the determined, the most important relationship they'll ever begin is the one with God Himself. But who is God? What is He like? And what does He desire for those who follow Him? This article marks the beginning of a multi-part series designed to help Determined Seekers grow in their understanding of the One who created them.
Who Is God?
The Bible never tries to prove the existence of God — rather, it assumes it. "In the beginning God created the Heavens and the Earth." —Genesis 1:1. God is the Creator. Before anything existed, He did! He is eternal, without beginning or end. He is the one true God: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one." — Deuteronomy 6:4. Jesus affirms His unity with God: "Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father." —John 14:9.
What Is God Like?
1. God is Holy. God is utterly pure, without sin, and morally perfect. "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty." —Isaiah 6:3. And, He calls His people to reflect (i.e., to live in) that holiness!
2. God is Love. "God is love." —1 John 4:16. God's love is unconditional, sacrificial, and demonstrated most clearly in Jesus' death on the cross. NOTE: God IS love. Humans HAVE love. Think about that for awhile!
3. God is Just and Merciful. He judges sin (i.e., violations of His moral law) righteously, but He also delights in showing mercy (to those who are humble). His justice and mercy meet at the cross - by paying for all of our sins (if we would just humble ourselves and ask).
4. God is Faithful and True. God never breaks a promise, and His Word can be trusted. "He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love..." — Deuteronomy 7:9. (God promised us a rainbow and it's still here. He promised us a risen Savior, and He still lives! He promised salvation to all who'd come to Him.)
What Does God Want for His People?
1. A personal, daily relationship. "I will be their God, and they will be my people." —Jeremiah 31:33. "Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ." —John 17:3.
2. Transformation. He doesn't just forgive sin — He changes our lives. "Be transformed by the renewing of your mind." —Romans 12:2.
3. Love for others. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart… Love your neighbor as yourself." —Matthew 22:37-39.
4. Hope. "'We must hold on to the hope we have, never hesitating to tell people about it. We can trust God to do what he promised.'" — Hebrews 10:23.
Where Do You Begin?
- Open the Bible and read it daily — start with Mark, John, James, and Proverbs.
- Talk to God through prayer daily, even if your words feel simple.
- Find a community of Believers who are serious about their journey.
- Ask God to show you who He is — and He will. "You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." — Jeremiah 29:13
If you have questions or comments, email me here.
In His Name,
Roy