The Character of God

Revelation 2 & 3     Joel Keller

As I've pondered these chapters this week, I notice a pattern in God's messages to the churches.  As Eric shared yesterday, God points out some shortfalls...and then exhorts them to do such & such.  And often, if they don't do what He encourages them to do, there is a negative consequence as a result.  That is so like God: He pulls no punches. He shows us His observations about our lives - the decisions we make, our priorities, our aspirations, our affections - and He comments on them.  Often He will begin with the positive (He's like that!).  Then He points out areas that need improvement...or a complete change of direction (repentance).  And He's so what you see is what you get, that He will tell us the result of our decision before we make it.  He wants us to thrive, folks; He's for us!

This pattern, which is consistent throughout the Scriptures, shows us the character of God. He is good.  He pulls no punches (I know I already said that, but it's worth repeating).  He is the same yesterday, today & forever.  He set the moon & the stars in their places; He knows what He's doing.  And we have the opportunity to follow this knowable God of the universe, through His Son.  The Holy Spirit is with us, provoking us to listen to Him - that still, small voice - as we wrestle with decisions in our daily lives.  [OK; land the plane, JK].  Here's the bottom line for me: I am constantly thrown back on the character of God.  When He tells me to do something (through the Word, through a book or a friend or His still, small voice), I have utter confidence that it is for my good (Rom.8:28, 29)...because I know He wants me to be like His Son.  So, little ones, follow your Daddy.  He won't lead you astray.  Listen to all He says, and be bent on obedience.  It's for your own good.