7 Divine Characteristics of God Unveiled: A Christian Perspective

Characteristics of God

The Bible reveals the characteristics of God to believers, giving us insight into His nature and qualities. As mortal beings, it can be challenging for us to fully comprehend the power and majesty of the God who created everything. The prophet Isaiah reminds us, “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways” (Isaiah 55:8). In this article, we will explore three key characteristics of God and how believers should respond to each.

The Holiness of God

One of the most important attributes of God is His holiness. The Bible describes God as holy in Isaiah 6:3 and Revelation 4:8, where it says, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.” When we catch a glimpse of God's holiness in contrast to our own sinful nature, it brings us to a place of true repentance. Recognizing the consequences of sin and understanding that Jesus suffered on our behalf humbles us. We are silenced before the face of God's holiness, overwhelmed by the reverence such holiness demands. Job expressed this sentiment when he said, “I am unworthy—how can I reply to you? I put my hand over my mouth” (Job 40:4). Understanding God's holiness leads us to appreciate His compassion (2 Corinthians 1:3), mercy (Romans 9:15), grace, and forgiveness (Romans 5:17) towards us. Psalm 130:3–4 acknowledges that if God kept a record of our sins, no one could stand before Him. However, because He offers forgiveness, we reverence Him.

Why This Matters: Recognizing God's holiness helps us understand the seriousness of sin and our need for repentance and forgiveness. It also allows us to appreciate His compassion and mercy towards us.

Think About It: How does understanding God's holiness impact your view of sin and the importance of repentance?

The Love of God

God's love is perhaps His most endearing characteristic. Love necessitates a relationship, and from eternity past, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have existed in perfect relationship with one another. We were created in God's image to be in relationship with Him (Genesis 3:17–18; Romans 1:19–20). God's love for us is so great that He sent His only Son, Jesus, to redeem us from our sins. The apostle John tells us, “This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters” (1 John 3:16–19). Through Jesus, God provided a solution for our sin, taking on our punishment to satisfy His justice (John 1:1–5, 14, 29). At the cross, God's perfect love and perfect justice intersected. When we begin to grasp the depth of God's love for us, our response is one of humility, repentance, and reciprocal love. Like King David, we pray that God will create in us a pure heart and a steadfast spirit (Psalm 34:18; 51:10, 17). Although God dwells in a high and holy place, He is also near to those who are humble in spirit (Isaiah 57:15).

Why This Matters: Understanding and experiencing God's love transforms our hearts and motivates us to love Him and others in return.

Think About It: How does knowing that God loves you unconditionally impact your relationship with Him and others?

The Sovereignty of God

God's sovereignty is another crucial aspect of His character. He is eternal, existing from everlasting to everlasting (Psalm 90:2). He is the source of all life (Romans 11:33–36) and is independent of His creation (Acts 17:24–28). Throughout Scripture, faithful individuals like Abraham, Samuel, Isaiah, Daniel, and David acknowledged God as their Sovereign Lord. In 1 Chronicles 29:10–13, David praises God, recognizing His greatness, power, glory, majesty, and splendor. Believers honor our Sovereign Lord who has redeemed us and willingly submit to Him (2 Peter 2:1; James 4:7; Jude 1:4). King David beautifully captures the characteristics of God when he declares, “The Lord reigns, he is robed in majesty; the Lord is robed in majesty and armed with strength. The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved. Your throne was established long ago; you are from all eternity. . . . The Lord on high is mighty. Your statutes stand firm; holiness adorns your house for endless days, O Lord” (Psalm 93:1–2, 4–5).

Why This Matters: Recognizing God's sovereignty helps us trust in Him and surrender to His plans and purposes.

Think About It: How does acknowledging God's sovereignty impact your faith and trust in Him?

There are many other characteristics of God revealed in the Bible. For example, God's faithfulness leads us to trust Him, His grace prompts gratitude, His power incites awe, and His knowledge encourages us to seek wisdom (James 1:5). Those who truly know God conduct themselves in holiness and honor (1 Thessalonians 4:4–5).

As we consider these characteristics of God, it is important to respond appropriately. We should approach Him with reverence, humility, and gratitude. Just as Moses, Job, Isaiah, and John responded in awe and repentance when encountering God's glory, our hearts should also be filled with worship and submission.

In conclusion, the Bible provides insights into the characteristics of God. His holiness calls us to repentance and appreciation for His compassion and forgiveness. His love transforms our hearts and motivates us to respond in love towards Him and others. His sovereignty reminds us to trust in Him and surrender to His plans. Understanding these characteristics helps us develop a deeper relationship with God and live in alignment with His will.

May we continually seek to know God more deeply, responding to His character with reverence, humility, and love.