Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. (Hebrews 2:17, 18 ESV)

The image of God as an angry judge may be true in regards to satan and his brood of demons, but is simply not the case when it comes to you.

Misguided theology, although often passed down by well-intended believers, produces wrong conclusions regarding God. From the earliest Biblical account – the Garden of Eden – many believers have a skewed perspective, seeing God’s banishment of Adam and Eve from the Garden as punishment.

The truth is, if Adam and Eve in their sinful state (having eaten of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil) would have afterward eaten of the Tree of (eternal) Life, they would have been forever bound by sin. God’s banishment wasn’t punishment, it was protection.

Everything God does is motivated by love, by mercy, and by grace. That’s not to say that you will understand or immediately agree with everything He does, but that you need never to doubt His motive.

And what about that shame you carry? That condemnation that weighs you down. That sense of disappointment you live with?

God refers to His own presence as the Throne of Grace, where you can find mercy.

Jesus is your High Priest! He is FOR you. He sympathizes with you. And He helps you – even when you are tempted!

Have you been living with a wrong image of God? What if He just simply loves you?

Father,
Thank You for Your love, Your mercy, and Your grace. Help me to see You as You truly are.
Amen.