Articles
God Is ...(7)
God Is …..(7)
By Greg King
Some have a tendency to focus on one or two of God’s characteristics and ignore the others. We like the idea of God being just, as long as His justice is not directed at us. The wrath of God is a subject many choose to ignore. Romans 11:22 says, “Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God's kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you too will be cut off.
Man’s failure to understand the severity of God may stem from his failure to see the sinfulness of sin. Men have a tendency to regard sin lightly, to cover up its ugliness, and make excuses for it. The more we study God’s holiness, the more we will understand the heinousness of sin and why one sin is sufficient to separate us from God (Isa. 59:1-2). Sin is rebellion against God’s holiness, sovereignty, and authority. Therefore, it demands punishment. Because we all have sinned (Rom.3:23), we all deserve the wrath of God. The good news is God can forgive sins because of the sacrifice made by Jesus Christ our savior. Ephesians 1:7 states, “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.” Because of God’s grace we are not punished as soon as we sin and because of His mercy and our acceptance of Christ as our sacrifice for sin, we will not be punished in eternity. We can turn to Christ and flee the wrath that is to come. 2Thess. 1:7-9 says’ “And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power.”
A proper understanding of who God is and what God is like is one of the most important things we must learn. If we are to serve God as His children then we must know not only what He wants, but also who He is. To know God is to give ourselves to the reading, hearing, and study of His word (Rom. 10:17). If I truly know God I will keep His commandments (1 John 2:3-4).
What I know about God causes me to be humble before Him. What I don't know causes me to be awestruck. While I do not know everything, I know enough to love Him, honor Him, and desire to please Him. Are You Pleasing Him?
