Read: Exodus 34:1–9
Bible in a Year: 1 Chronicles 13–15; John 7:1–27
The Lord is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished. Numbers 14:18
Caricature artists set up their easels in public places and draw
pictures of people who are willing to pay a modest price for a humorous
image of themselves. Their drawings amuse us because they exaggerate one
or more of our physical features in a way that is recognizable but
funny.
Caricatures of God, on the other hand, are not funny.
Exaggerating one of His attributes presents a distorted view that people
easily dismiss. Like a caricature, a distorted view of God is not taken
seriously. Those who see God portrayed only as an angry and demanding
judge are easily lured away by someone who emphasizes mercy. Those who
see God as a kindhearted grandfather will reject that image when they
need justice. Those who see God as an intellectual idea rather than a
living, loving being eventually find other ideas more appealing. Those
who see God as a best friend often leave Him behind when they find human
friends who are more to their liking.
God declares Himself to be merciful and gracious, but also just in punishing the guilty (Ex. 34:6–7).
As we put our faith into action, we need to avoid portraying God as
having only our favorite attributes. We must worship all of God, not
just what we like.
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, I worship You. You are holy, just, kind, and loving. You are God alone.
God is God alone.
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