In Exodus 34, God is described in great detail.  His motivating and unchanging attributes are highlighted and His character is declared.

This description is so spot on it became the common language used when talking about God.  Ten times in the Old Testament portions of this depiction are rehearsed to share the wonders of God.

Here is the original account found in Exodus 34:6-7. 

“The Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.”

What a great picture of God…yet what is most intriguing to me is the author.

Do you know who described God of creation this way? 

Interestingly enough He did.  In an exchange with Moses on Mount Sanai, God declared that He is gracious and compassionate. That He is slow to anger and abounding in love.  That He maintains love to thousands and forgives trespasses. 

Amazing.  God, who does not lie and can not change His mind…when choosing to describe Himself chooses language that talks about His tenderness, His compassion, and His mercy towards imperfect people.

I reread this scripture often because it is who God is and how He wants to be known. His character (compassion, grace, love, faithfulness, forgiving) dictates His dealings with mankind and emphasizes how He has dealt with, continues to deal with, and will deal with me in the future. 

Because I know His nature, I can rest in Him.  Because I know His character, I find confidence in knowing that He is on my side.  And, because I know that He will be true to the description He chose of Himself, I can trust Him.  I can rely on Him. And, even when I am going through a tough time, I can cling to Him.  

He truly is a gracious, compassionate God slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.  He maintains love to me and those around me.  And, He forgives wickedness, rebellion, and sin. 

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