Job 7:19 Will you not look away from me a while, let me alone until I swallow my spittle?
When I was a young boy, I imagined God as an omnipotent version of my parents, watching me every hour of the day. Every sin, even the smallest misstep, was seen from on high and recorded in the great book of my blunders.
I now understand this was a distorted and wonky image of God, one that put no emphasis on God’s mercy. So what image are we to use to imagine God? The Bible supplies us with many possibilities. God is portrayed as a mighty king, a great counselor, and a nursing mother. The images of a mother hen protecting her chicks, dazzling light, and a consuming fire are also used to describe God.
When you think of God, what picture forms in your mind? Do you see God as a mother with a smile on her face or a father with a scowl? Do you imagine the warmth of the sun or the cold of winter? Images form our theology.
MOVING FORWARD: Reflect on the image you have of God. Search scripture for others.
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