Whether celebrating someone on their birthday, honoring them for a holiday, or simply expressing what they mean to you, you may choose to highlight certain qualities you appreciate. A mother’s gentleness, leader’s integrity, or friend’s kindness might come to mind. People speak well of those they admire, pointing out praiseworthy features in their character.
Everybody is made in the image of God. But nobody is perfect, as God is. His character is most commendable, His name most glorified, His being most beautiful. And sometimes I just like to think about that.
God is patient.
He shows wisdom in waiting, purpose in planning, and grace in everything. God does not give up, rush, or worry. He is enduring, longsuffering, and forbearing with sinful people who continually resist Him.
“The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9
God is sovereign.
He maintains continuous control over all, never wavering or wondering. The Almighty First and Last contains all knowledge, power, and ability to create, sustain, and coordinate life. He is supreme, prevailing, and preeminent from the beginning to the end.
“For by Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through Him and for Him.” – Colossians 1:16
God is merciful.
He displays kindness and compassion toward those who are broken before Him. His ruthless, righteous punishment of sin fell upon His only Son, so that His tender, tremendous grace could wash over repentant sinners instead. He is forgiving, benevolent, and humble.
“The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” – Psalm 145:8
God is surprising.
He is always doing a new thing. The King is exacting and demanding, yet understanding and willing. His promises stand when all foundations shatter, and His mercies are new when the morning dawns.
“But, as it is written, ‘What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him’—these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.” – 1 Corinthians 2:9-10
God is Love.
Not just loving or lovely, God is love itself. He displayed the greatest love, embodied the deepest love, and promised unending love for His children. All other loves shrink in the shadow of His.
“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you.” – John 15:13-14
“See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” – 1 John 3:1
“God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.” – 4:16
And that hardly scratches the surface.
Abby
