Topical Encyclopedia
Awareness of GodThe Bible consistently affirms that God is omniscient, meaning He possesses complete and perfect knowledge of all things. This divine attribute underscores His awareness of every aspect of creation, including the thoughts and actions of humanity.
Psalm 139:1-4 beautifully captures this truth: "O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You understand my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down; You are aware of all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, You know all about it, O LORD."
God's awareness is not limited to the present but extends to the past and future.
Isaiah 46:9-10 declares, "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all My purpose.'"
This comprehensive knowledge assures believers that nothing escapes God's notice.
Hebrews 4:13 states, "Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight; everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account."
Compassion of GodGod's compassion is a central theme throughout Scripture, reflecting His deep love and mercy towards His creation. The Hebrew word for compassion, "racham," conveys a sense of tender mercy and loving-kindness. In
Exodus 34:6 , God reveals His character to Moses, proclaiming, "The LORD, the LORD God, is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth."
The compassion of God is vividly demonstrated in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. In
Matthew 9:36 , it is recorded, "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." This compassion led Jesus to heal the sick, feed the hungry, and ultimately sacrifice Himself for the salvation of humanity.
God's compassion is also evident in His response to human suffering and repentance.
Psalm 103:13-14 illustrates this tender care: "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He is mindful that we are dust."
The prophet Isaiah speaks of God's enduring compassion, even in times of judgment.
Isaiah 54:10 reassures, "Though the mountains may be removed and the hills may be shaken, My loving devotion will not depart from you, and My covenant of peace will not be broken, says the LORD, who has compassion on you."
Interplay of Awareness and CompassionGod's awareness and compassion are intricately linked, as His perfect knowledge informs His merciful actions. In
Psalm 56:8 , the psalmist acknowledges God's intimate awareness of personal suffering: "You have taken account of my wanderings. Put my tears in Your bottle—are they not in Your book?" This awareness leads to divine intervention and comfort.
The interplay of these attributes is further seen in the New Testament. In
Hebrews 4:15-16 , believers are encouraged to approach God with confidence, knowing that Jesus, our High Priest, empathizes with our weaknesses: "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are, yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."
God's awareness and compassion assure believers of His constant presence and care, providing comfort and hope in every circumstance.