Rediscovering God’s Kindness for a Vibrant Spiritual Life
Introduction: The First Attack and Its Lasting Consequences
Have you ever wondered why so many people struggle with guilt, fear, or a sense of distance when it comes to God? The root of these feelings goes all the way back to the very first story in the Bible—when Satan approached Eve in the Garden of Eden. His first strategy wasn’t outright rebellion or tempting Eve to do something obviously wrong. Instead, he planted a subtle doubt: “Did God really tell you that you can’t eat from any tree in the garden? (Gen. 3:1) Is He holding something back from you?” That whisper undermined Eve’s confidence in God’s goodness, and ever since, this false idea about God’s character has cast a shadow over countless lives.
How Misconceptions About God Deform the Soul
If we think of God as tough, far away, or hard to make happy, it’s kind of like looking at ourselves in a broken mirror—the picture isn’t clear, and that blurry view affects everything about us. Lots of people grow up believing God is always keeping score and waiting for us to slip up, or that we have to work really hard to earn His love. For example, I remember when I did something wrong as a kid, I thought, “God is going to punish me.” This isn’t just an idea we carry in our heads—it actually shapes how we feel inside. We might get nervous, feel like we need to be perfect, or even get upset, and often we don’t realize these feelings come from not really understanding what God is actually like.
The Pharisees: Outward Morality, Inward Emptiness
Think about the Pharisees—those religious leaders in Jesus’ day who were famous for their strict rules and impressive rituals. On the outside, they looked squeaky clean. They followed every law and expected others to do the same. But inside, they were often empty, dry, and critical. Why? Because their focus was on performance and appearances, not on a real relationship with a loving God. Their image of God was demanding and harsh, so that’s how they lived—and that’s what they passed on to others. It’s a sobering reminder that outward morality doesn’t always mean inward health.
When We See God Wrongly: The Effects of a Grim View
A grim, loveless view of God can turn faith into a joyless chore. People who see God as unsmiling or impossible to please may become rigid, judgmental, or even harsh with themselves and others. Instead of experiencing freedom and peace, their spiritual life feels like walking on eggshells. They may go through the motions—praying, reading, serving—but their hearts are weighed down. This is not what God intended for us. When we misunderstand who God is, religion becomes a burden instead of a blessing.
The Importance of a Right Conception of God
Everything changes when we get a clear, true picture of God. Imagine knowing, deep down, that God is not out to get you. He’s not keeping score or waiting for a reason to turn away. Instead, He is for you—cheering you on, offering grace when you stumble, and loving you right where you are. When we see God’s heart accurately, our souls relax. We become free to grow, to love others, and to experience real transformation from the inside out.
God’s True Nature: Loving, Merciful, Easy to Live With
At His core, God is loving, merciful, and easy to live with. He delights in kindness and forgiveness. He is patient, gentle, and always ready to welcome us home. Jesus showed us this again and again—eating with outcasts, forgiving those who failed, and offering new starts to everyone. God is not a distant judge, but a close and compassionate friend. He wants our relationship with Him to be marked by joy, trust, and confidence—not fear or insecurity.
Embracing God’s Kindness: A Path to Spiritual Well-Being
If you’ve been carrying a heavy burden or living with a distorted view of God, you don’t have to stay there. You can let go of the old lies and step into the light of God’s true character. Let His kindness reshape how you see yourself and others. As you do, you’ll find that faith becomes a source of joy and strength, not stress or shame. You’ll discover that God is better than you ever imagined—and that His love is the foundation for a full and flourishing spiritual life.
Take a moment today to ask yourself: “How do I really see God?” If your answer is anything less than loving and kind, it might be time for a fresh perspective. God’s arms are wide open, inviting you to experience His true nature—and to let that truth set you free.
Minister A Francine Green
November 2025
afrancinegreen.com 