There are some who have an image of what they think God is like, but not according to truth. Some see Him as so loving He would never punish anyone except for perhaps the thing that particular individual might consider the awfullest thing any human being might do; the thing they personally feel should never be forgiven. Then there are those who appear to see God as a “cosmic Santa Claus” to whom their wish list is presented or a “magic genie” who grants wishes if stroked the right way. There are also those who seem to consider Him as merely a “panic button” to be pushed (turned to) when things aren’t going well. However, we are to consider the truth relative to a proper relationship with God and also how just as His promises ought to be taken seriously, so should His warnings! Though God is mindful of all that goes on in this realm, how can one expect His attentiveness when He and is His Will are being ignored?
In one of David’s psalms we read. . .
“(17) The Lord is righteous in all his ways and kind in all his works. (18) The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. (19) He fulfills the desire of those who fear him; he also hears their cry and saves them. (20) The Lord preserves all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.” (Psalm 145:17-20 ESV)
Yes, God is very loving (Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:8) and merciful, but He is also righteous in all His ways even in punishing the unrepentant. He has an expectation of being properly acknowledged in accordance with the truth. Therefore, we need to call on Him in truth as we acknowledge our sins and seek His restoration in our life. Then in our calling on Him in truth we are to do so with a desire for the truth of His Will to prevail on our behalf.
John similarly noted. . .
“(14) And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us.” (1 John 5:14 ESV)
Trusting God’s Will to always be best should be foundational to our calling upon Him. May this be true about our trusting relationship with God as we grow in our love for the truth (note 2 Thessalonians 2:10) and so call on Him in truth!
Have a great day ACKNOWLEDGING AND APPROACHING GOD HIS WAY!
Carl
