The Goodness of God

By: Elizabeth Haarberg

God’s Nature

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link.

“God is always good” is a phrase I’ve heard a lot of Christians say. To believe that He is good, is more difficult.

So, what does it mean that “God is good?”

God wants us to know Him intimately, to the point of tasting Him like we would food.

“Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good!” Psalm 34:8 English Standard Version

God’s kindness leads us to repentance, which breaks down the walls between ourselves and others, and in this case “others” also means between us and God.

“Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?” Romans 2:4 English Standard Version

God loves us so much that He stores up His goodness just for us!

“Oh, how abundant is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you and worked for those who take refuge in you, in the sight of the children of mankind!” Psalm 31:9 English Standard Version

He gives and gives abundantly. His nature is to give good gifts.

“For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.” Psalm 84:11 English Standard Version

God’s goodness never runs out. He stores up His goodness just for us and then continuously pours that goodness over us. We are the receivers of God’s goodness and He desires to continue to love and care for us, no matter what. God’s goodness is also meant to bring us closer to Him so we can repent and move on.

Something I have learned is how to accept His goodness and kindness and not to get so focused on how little goodness is in me. God just wants us to keep our eyes on Him. He will help us navigate the rest if we trust His motives.

Copyright of Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado

About Elizabeth Haarberg

Elizabeth Williams Haarberg lives in Kearney, Nebraska with her husband and four children. She has lived in many places but has found her true home with God.