Verse 7: Exodus 34:6-7

The Character of God

As we continue our journey through Scripture, we are discovering the God who has revealed Himself to us and who desires to be known by us. Before we can truly follow God, obey Him, or enjoy a relationship with Him, we must first know who He is. Thankfully, He has not left us to wonder. He has revealed Himself through creation, which declares His glory, and through His Word, where His character is made known.

Thus far, our memory verses have introduced us to God as the Creator of the universe (Genesis 1:1) and the Creator of every human being. They have revealed Jesus as the eternal Word (John 1:1) who became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14). We have seen God's majesty and power displayed in creation (Psalm 19:1), His perfect holiness proclaimed by the seraphim (Isaiah 6:3), and His loving care as our Shepherd (Psalm 23:1).

Today we come to one of the clearest descriptions of God's character in all of Scripture. The setting makes these words even more remarkable. Israel had just sinned by worshiping the golden calf, breaking their covenant with the Lord. Yet when Moses asked to see God's glory, the Lord did not begin by displaying His power or announcing His judgment. Instead, He proclaimed His own name and character:

"The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness..." (Exodus 34:6, ESV)

God tells us what He is like. He is kind and full of mercy. He is patient with us and loves us with a faithful, never-ending love. He is willing to forgive those who repent. At the same time, He is just. Because He is just, He cannot overlook sin.

Verse 7 continues:

"...keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty..." (Exodus 34:7, ESV)

This beautiful balance of mercy and justice becomes one of the most frequently repeated descriptions of God throughout the rest of Scripture.

These truths find their fullest expression in Jesus Christ. At the cross, God's justice against sin and His mercy toward sinners were both perfectly displayed. Through Christ, God provides forgiveness for all who repent and place their faith in Him while remaining perfectly holy and just.

As you memorize this week's passage, don't simply learn the words. Take time to reflect on what they reveal about the God you serve. The more we know His character, the more we will trust Him, worship Him, and faithfully follow Him.