We recently started doing a series at our church called ‘Who Told You That?’ and we’re looking at some of the misconceptions we have about God and the Bible.
It’s been an interesting series to prepare for as it’s made me look at some of my beliefs and ask myself where that belief started.
The Lies We Believe
One of the beliefs we looked at was this belief that God is disappointed in us. The bible tells us in Romans 3:23 that we’ve all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. I look at myself and see someone who has fallen waaayyy short of the glory of God. And in those moments when I’ve reflected on my errors and my actions, the enemy likes to tell me that God is so disappointed in me and will never love me the same. Combine that with experiencing people’s disappointment in you when you have messed up in their eyes, it’s natural to lean towards believing that God is disappointed.
He’s Not Disappointed
But after reading scripture and spending time with the Holy Spirit, I do not believe that to be the case. And we see that with Adam and Eve’s disobedience. Aside from encouraging us that we’re doing okay (they changed the trajectory of humanity after all, we’re doing fine in comparison!), the story of their disobedience shows us the depts of God’s love. When God calls out to Adam and Eve after they disobeyed him and they tell him they are hiding from him because they are naked, God replies with, “Who told you that you were naked?” (Genesis 3:11). I always read that as God being a little annoyed. I mean, He knew what happened, so it seemed like a sarcastic question, which says more about me than God, but that’s a post for another day. But it was more than a question.
The Invitation To Trust Him
But as I sat with the Holy Spirit reading this scripture, He showed me that it wasn’t a passive-aggressive question or a trick question to catch them out; it was an invitation to trust Him with the truth. God was inviting them to confess what they had done and to trust in His love and mercy. What I believed was spoken with annoyance or anger was (in my limited understanding) spoken with kindness and love.
Was God grieved by their actions? I believe he was, but I don’t believe he was angry. Were their consequences for their actions? Yes, because consequences are appropriate and required when we mess up, but that still doesn’t mean God was angry. And we see that in Genesis 3:21 that tells us God made skin for Adam and Eve and covered them. This was an act of love and protection.
He’s Still Inviting Us
And He does the same for us today.
Is God grieved when we mess up or do things that go against His Word? I believe God is grieved because he loves us so much. God knows what our actions will result in before we do. Is He disappointed? No, I don’t believe he is. His love for us is so deep and wide and eternal that we cannot possibly understand it. But what I know is that when we approach God with an open heart with genuine repentance, seeking his love, forgiveness, and guidance, he willingly gives it to us. God’s arms are always open for you to run to. And he will never let you down, leave you, or forsake you.
I don’t know what you believe about God and the Bible, but God’s heart is for you. He loves you, as you are, and He isn’t disappointed in you. Can I encourage you to sit with God and let Him show you some of the misconceptions you have. And allow him to lead your heart closer to His.
Reflection Questions
What are some misconceptions you’ve believed about God and how have you shifted your thinking?
Thank you for sharing this. I really enjoyed reading it, and while I don’t have any misconceptions to share right this minute, it certainly made me stop and think!
Thank you, Dienece! And I appreciate that it’s made you think, that’s the heart behind it, so thanks for sharing!