Getting Real About Knowing God: How Our Perceptions Shape Our Faith

Simple Thoughts on God’s Nature, Our Misunderstandings, and Living Like We Know Him

What Is God Really Like?

Have you ever stopped to ask, “Who is God, really?” or “How would I even describe God to someone else?” Sometimes, even in church, it’s easy to go through the motions—saying the right things, quoting Bible verses—but never really knowing God for ourselves. In fact, several years ago I heard deep down in my spirit that many of God’s people, especially in the western church, don’t truly know God’s word or His ways.

Why We Get God Wrong

Wrong ideas about God can mess up how we live and how we treat others. Look at the history of Israel in the Bible—they kept missing the point about who God was, and so has the church at times. Maybe we’ve made God out to be harsh and distant, or maybe a pushover who just wants us to be happy. But the truth is, these ideas don’t match who God actually is.

What Does God Say?

God Himself says in Jeremiah 9:23-24 that we shouldn’t brag about how smart, strong, or rich we are. If we want to brag, brag about this: that we know and understand Him. He’s the Eternal One who acts with love, justice, and righteousness. That’s what makes Him happy.

But here’s a problem: back in Jeremiah’s day, God’s people didn’t really acknowledge Him. They were friendly to each other on the outside but hiding bad motives in their hearts. Their lives were full of lying and doing whatever they wanted, and as a result, God said He needed to test and refine them.

Living What We Believe

It’s not enough to just say we believe in God or to quote scriptures. We’re supposed to be “salt and light”—making the world better and brighter. But if we don’t live like it, our faith doesn’t mean much. Jesus said we should let our light shine so people see our good deeds and give glory to God.

Why Does All This Matter?

Our world is pretty messed up right now. There’s confusion, selfishness, and a lot of people searching for answers. God isn’t interested in politics or human systems. He wants people who actually know Him, who reflect His love and His truth in everything they do.

The Big Picture

Knowing God isn’t just about facts or head knowledge—it’s about a real relationship. God wants to be known. He wants us to trust Him, to live out what we believe, and to help others find Him too. In the end, having a true understanding of God is worth more than any achievement, wealth, or power.

So, let’s not settle for shallow faith. Let’s seek to know God for who He truly is—and let that knowledge change the way we live, love, and shine in the world.

Minister A Francine Green

February 2026

Leave a comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.