Knowing GodSample

Day 2: Understanding God’s Character 

One of the key aspects of knowing someone is to know what they are like. This truth is especially important when it comes to knowing God. To help our ability to know God, take a look at God’s character. If we begin to understand God’s character, we’re that much closer to knowing him in a way that impacts our life.

In the bible, God’s compassion is shown through his continued care for the Israelites despite their rebellion in the old testament and also through Jesus’ tender concern for the poor and sick in his earthly ministry. God’s being slow to anger is shown in his forgiveness for our sin and should be recognized in his giving us plenty of time to change and turn away from our sin. Finally, his faithful love is shown in his promise-keeping from the opening of the bible to the end, in which he promises to finally do away with sin in the person of Jesus. 

It is important to understand God's character in order to know him. Our circumstances will change. We will disappoint ourselves along the way; however, if we stay mindful of God’s character, we will have the anchor we need to be sustained through life’s peaks and valleys. We will also progressively grow in our capacity to enjoy God. The good news of the Gospel is that God’s character never changes—he is the same yesterday, today, and forever! 

Meditate on the following scripture: Exodus 34:5-6 (5 minutes)

Reflect on the following: (10 minutes)

1. Many times, we project our human characteristics onto God; we think he is like us — quick-tempered, inconsistent, and conditionally loving. How have you thought of God in ways that don’t match up with how he describes himself in scripture?

2. What new ways are you inspired to connect with God, knowing what his true character is like?

Past disappointments, hurt, and even a lack of faith can all be barriers to connecting with the true character of God. If you are struggling with the truth of a compassionate, gracious God who is slow to anger, consider the following prayer. 

Pray: God, thank you for revealing yourself through scripture. Please help me to identify your true character by empowering me to seek you in your word. Please also help me to grow in my capacity to detect your character in my daily living through the power of your Holy Spirit.