Knowing God through his Attributes

Opening Scripture

“The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.” – Exodus 34:6-7a

When Moses asked to see God’s glory on Mount Sinai, God responded by describing His attributes. This moment teaches us that part of knowing God is understanding who He is in His very essence.

Think of how you introduce yourself to someone new. You might share your name, your work, your hobbies, the things that define you. In Scripture, God introduces Himself through His attributes, revealing the unchanging aspects of His character that define who He has always been and always will be.

God’s Love: The Heart of His Character

A godly parent’s love for their child doesn’t depend on the child’s behavior, achievements, or failures. Even when disciplining or correcting, that love remains constant. God’s love for us operates on this same principle, but infinitely deeper and more perfect.

God’s love isn’t an emotion that comes and goes. It’s His very nature. “God is love” (1 John 4:8). This means His love for you isn’t based on your performance, your past, or your potential. It’s rooted in who He is.

God’s Holiness: His Perfect Purity

But God isn’t just love, He is also holy. What does it mean to be holy? Imagine standing next to a brilliant light source. The closer you get, the more aware you become of any dirt or stains on your clothing. That’s similar to God. His holiness is the standard of perfection and purity. That’s not just who He is, but something He desires us to be. But our brokenness and sin keep us from experiencing His holiness.

God’s Forgiveness: His Unwavering Grace

But God makes a way through Jesus, that anyone who trusts in Him will not only have eternal life, but now be made right with the Father. And this offer of forgiveness is for everyone. He invites us to experience His love and be transformed into His likeness. 

Reflection Questions

1. Which of God’s attributes do you find most comforting right now in your current circumstances? Why?
2. Is there an attribute of God that you struggle to accept or understand? What questions do you have about it?
3. How might understanding God’s unchanging character affect the way you approach challenges, relationships, or decisions this week?
4. Take a moment to consider God’s love, holiness, and faithfulness. How do these attributes inspire you to worship Him today?
5. Where in your life do you need to rely more fully on God’s character rather than your own understanding or ability?

Prayer Focus

Loving Father, thank You for revealing who You are through Your attributes. Help me to know You not just intellectually, but personally and intimately. When I’m tempted to doubt Your love, remind me of Your unchanging character. When I’m aware of my shortcomings, draw me closer to Your holiness. When I’m uncertain about the future, anchor me in Your faithfulness. Let my understanding of who You are transform how I live, love, and trust. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s Challenge

Choose one attribute of God to meditate on throughout the day. Look for ways this attribute is displayed in your circumstances, relationships, and experiences. Before you sleep tonight, journal about how you saw God’s character revealed in your day.

Tomorrow’s Preview

Tomorrow we’ll explore how God’s Word serves as a primary way He reveals Himself to us, building upon today’s foundation of His character.