How does recognizing God's goodness influence our relationship with Him? The Moment Jesus Highlights God’s Goodness “‘Why do you call Me good?’ Jesus replied. ‘No one is good except God alone.’” (Mark 10:18) Why Jesus Points Us to the Father’s Goodness - The rich young ruler thought of goodness in human terms; Jesus redirects him to God’s absolute, flawless standard. - Scripture describes God’s goodness as intrinsic, eternal, and unchanging (Psalm 119:68; James 1:17). - By affirming that only God is truly good, Jesus underlines both His own divine identity and our need to look beyond human merit. How Recognizing God’s Goodness Shapes Our Hearts - Humility: Knowing God alone is perfectly good strips away self-righteousness and pride (Isaiah 64:6). - Repentance: “God’s kindness leads you to repentance” (Romans 2:4). Awareness of His gracious goodness draws genuine sorrow over sin. - Trust: “The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble” (Nahum 1:7). Confidence grows when we see His benevolent character. - Gratitude & Worship: “Taste and see that the LORD is good” (Psalm 34:8). Recognizing His goodness fuels thankful praise. - Obedience: We gladly follow commands given by a perfectly good God, believing His ways are best (Psalm 119:68). - Love for Others: Experiencing God’s goodness motivates us to extend goodness and mercy to people around us (Ephesians 4:32). Scripture Echoes That Reinforce the Same Truth - Psalm 100:5 — “For the LORD is good, and His loving devotion endures forever.” - Exodus 34:6 — “The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious...” - James 1:17 — “Every good and perfect gift is from above...” - John 3:16 — God’s supreme act of goodness in giving His Son. Living Daily in the Light of His Goodness - Begin each day recalling specific ways God has been good. - Thank Him aloud for blessings, both ordinary and extraordinary. - Trust His goodness in trials, reminding yourself that His nature never changes. - Choose acts of kindness that mirror His heart—generosity, patience, forgiveness. - Stay grounded in Scripture; the more you see His good character, the more your faith and affection deepen. |
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