Oh please forgive me. I need to repurpose an older blog post for just one more day. My Dad got off to the airport and has made it home safely. My visit with him was better than I could have imagined. There will be multiple posts to come to share how God showed up in the most wonderful ways.
My Mom however, went in for another angioplasty. Another stent was placed in a blocked artery and the other artery was “cleaned out.” She is resting comfortably and we are praying for another “full” recovery…remember she is supposed to come to Colorado for a visit.
So today, I share a piece about autumn, Women’s Bible study, and how God is described in Scripture. I pray that you will find great encouragement from this blog post. Have a blessed day!
Like What?
It’s official. Fall has arrived in my neck of the woods.
It is officially fall when first day of school pictures are posted on Facebook.
It is officially fall when the windows in my home can be left open throughout the day with a cool breeze billowing in.
It is officially fall when my orange, yellow, red and gold décor make their way from the basement to the living room.
It is officially fall when I receive an email from our women’s ministry director stating what leaders will be teaching each Bible study.
I know technically it isn’t fall, but it is beginning to “feel” like fall.
When the trees begin their color change. When sweaters and shoes replace tank tops and flip flops. When anything made of pumpkin sounds delicious.
It feels like fall.
As we search Scripture, we can see some descriptions of God as being like something we are familiar with.
We’ll begin our search in 2 Samuel 22:3 (NIRV) where the author of this book states, “My God is my rock. I go to him for safety. He is like a shield to me. He’s the power that saves me. He’s my place of safety. I go to him for help. He’s my Savior. He saves me from those who want to hurt me.”
God is like a shield. His protection is provided to us against all of our enemies.
In the book of Psalms, we see a couple of descriptions of God. Psalm 46:7 (NIRV) says, “The Lord who rules over all is with us. The God of Jacob is like a fort to us.” Again, we see God’s protection. A fortress to surround us in times of trouble.
And in Psalm 121:5 (NIRV), the Psalmist shows how God provides comfort during the uncomfortable times of our life. “The Lord watches over you. The Lord is like a shade tree at your right hand.”
In Proverbs, we see two more pictures of what God is like. In Proverbs 3:12 (NIRV), God is described as a father. “The Lord trains those he loves. He is like a father who trains the son he is pleased with.” Because of the great love God has for us, we accept His training as we might from our earthly father.
And in Proverbs 18:10 (NIRV), God’s name is shown to be of great value to those who seek protection. “The name of the Lord is like a strong tower. Godly people run to it and are safe.”
God is described as a consuming fire several times in Scripture. As One who desires that we remain faithful to Him. The Hebrew author states it like this. “We are receiving a kingdom that can’t be shaken. So let us be thankful. Then we can worship God in a way that pleases him. We will worship him with deep respect and wonder. Our ‘God is like a fire that burns everything up.’” (Hebrews 12:28-29, referencing Deuteronomy 4:24 – NIRV)
The Psalmist asks the question, “Who, O God, is like you?” (Psalm 71:19b – NIV) And Jeremiah answers the question. “No one is like you, O Lord; you are great, and your name is mighty in power.” (Jeremiah 10:6 – NIV) We can try to describe God, but to be honest, God is beyond our comprehension. And also to be honest, I’m thankful for that.
If I were able to put my exact words to God’s existence and being, there would be nothing to draw me to Him. I’d have Him figured out. But instead, I’m continually searching for God. For who He is and why He loves me so. I’m continually searching His Word to find something new about God.
What is God like to you? Is He like a Light? Is He like a Teacher? Is He like a Husband? Is He like a Father? What is God like?
The great news is that God wants to be all of these for you and He wants to be everything for you.
It feels like fall, because fall really is just around the corner. But until then, we’ll continue to see small glimpses into the upcoming season. It is a season of thanksgiving. Let’s give thanks to our God for being so likeable.
Grace and peace be yours in abundance,
Donna