Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Balance of Attributes" refers to the harmonious coexistence and perfect equilibrium of God's characteristics as revealed in the Bible. This balance is essential to understanding the nature of God and His interactions with humanity. The attributes of God are not in conflict but rather complement each other, providing a comprehensive picture of His divine nature.Holiness and Love God's holiness is a central attribute, emphasizing His purity and separation from sin. Isaiah 6:3 declares, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth." This holiness is balanced by His love, which is equally profound. 1 John 4:8 states, "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." The balance between holiness and love is evident in God's dealings with humanity, where His love provides a means for reconciliation despite human sinfulness. Justice and Mercy The balance between justice and mercy is another critical aspect of God's character. God's justice demands that sin be punished, as seen in Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." However, His mercy offers forgiveness and redemption. Ephesians 2:4-5 highlights this balance: "But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses. It is by grace you have been saved." Sovereignty and Immanence God's sovereignty and immanence illustrate His transcendence and closeness to creation. Psalm 115:3 affirms His sovereignty: "Our God is in heaven; He does as He pleases." Yet, He is also immanent, involved in the world and accessible to His people. Acts 17:27 reveals this nearness: "God intended that they would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us." Wrath and Patience The balance of wrath and patience is evident in God's response to sin. His wrath is a righteous response to evil, as seen in Nahum 1:2, "The LORD is a jealous and avenging God; the LORD is avenging and full of wrath." Yet, God is also patient, desiring repentance rather than destruction. 2 Peter 3:9 explains, "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." Truth and Faithfulness God's truth and faithfulness are foundational to His character. He is the ultimate source of truth, as Jesus declared in John 14:6, "I am the way and the truth and the life." His faithfulness ensures that His promises are reliable and steadfast. Lamentations 3:22-23 praises this attribute: "Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!" Wisdom and Power The balance of wisdom and power is evident in God's creation and governance of the universe. His wisdom is profound, as Romans 11:33 exclaims, "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!" His power is unmatched, as demonstrated in Jeremiah 32:17, "Ah, Lord GOD! You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for You!" In summary, the balance of God's attributes reveals a God who is perfectly complete and harmonious in His nature. Each attribute complements the others, providing a full and rich understanding of who God is and how He relates to His creation. |