Day 2: The Doctrine of God, The God Who Is

Scripture
“For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.” Romans 11:36 ESV

“Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.” Psalm 90:2 ESV

Confessional Summary
The Belgic Confession begins with God as the only God. “We all believe with the heart and confess with the mouth that there is one only simple and spiritual Being, which we call God, and that he is eternal, incomprehensible, invisible, immutable, infinite, almighty, perfectly wise, just, good, and the overflowing fountain of all good” (Belgic Confession Article 1).

The Westminster Confession of Faith expands this in its chapter on God and the Holy Trinity. “There is but one only, living, and true God, who is infinite in being and perfection, a most pure spirit, invisible, without body, parts, or passions, immutable, immense, eternal, incomprehensible, almighty, most wise, most holy, most free, most absolute” (Westminster Confession of Faith 2.1).

The Reformers insisted that before we can understand anything else, we must know who God truly is.

Reflection
Doctrine begins with God because reality begins with God. Everything else in the Christian life rests on His character. His unchanging nature steadies your faith. His wisdom guides your obedience. His goodness undergirds your hope.

He is not like us. He does not grow or age. He does not learn or react like we do. He is never overwhelmed, never confused, never surprised. He depends on nothing outside Himself. And because this is true, you can depend on Him completely.

The doctrine of God is the most practical truth in Scripture. A small or unstable god produces small and unstable faith. But the God who simply is, the God who has always been and will always be, anchors every promise. When suffering comes, when confusion rises, or when sin threatens, this is the doctrine you return to. God is God, and God is good.

Over the next several weeks, you will explore God’s attributes, His works, His triune life, and His providence. These are not abstract. They are the foundation of a life that glorifies and enjoys Him.

Application
Pause today and confess before God one way your view of Him has been too small or too shaped by your own limitations.

Prayer
Lord, teach me who You truly are. Correct every false thought in my mind and steady my heart with Your unchanging character. Help me know You, trust You, and rest in You. Through Christ. Amen.