The Goodness of God

Psalm 103 is a quick way to get to know God, or if we already know him, it is a great reminder as to who he is and what he does. The Psalm says he:

  • forgives (Psalm 103:3)
  • heals (v3)
  • redeems (v4)
  • crowns (rewards) (v4)
  • satisfies (v5)
  • works righteousness (v6)
  • reveals himself to us (v7)
  • takes action (v7)
  • is merciful (v8, 10)
  • is gracious (v8)
  • is slow to anger (v8)
  • is love (v8)
  • forgives, accepts our repentance (v9, 12)
  • loves us (v11)
  • is compassionate (v13)
  • knows us (v14)
  • rules over all (v19)
  • speaks to us (v20)

Who are we?

As for us, even on our best day we cannot even compare ourselves to all of these attributes. In fact, it is likely that we can read these attributes and recall a very recent time when we were quite the opposite.

Our response is a choice.

The Psalmist calls us to action in response to who God is. Calling us to obey His voice, do His will, and keep His commandments. This reminds me of a recent sermon by Mike Baker at Eastview Christian Church. Pastor Mike said something to the effect of “the reason some people have a problem with Jesus is that he requires us to give up control and submit to Him.”

Would you submit to someone or something you do not know or understand? Probably not. This is why I believe God reveals himself to us in many ways each day: so that we may know him. He does not try to hide from us, he calls out in every moment of every day, seeking to draw us near.

As we go through today, let’s remember who he is, what he has done through his son Jesus, and what he will do. Look for the aforementioned attributes in every situation, the good and the bad. He has always been and always will be. Our circumstances may change but he does not change, he is good, he loves us and he will never leave us.