Reflecting on What God Is Really Like and Our Role as Salt and Light
Introduction: Why Knowing God Matters
If you asked someone, “What is God like?” you’d probably get a range of answers—from loving and powerful to mysterious and distant. But the truth is, many Christians, especially in Western churches, often have a limited or even distorted understanding of God. It’s easy to fall into routines, to focus on church activities or outward expressions of faith, and miss the deeper relationship God desires with us. This isn’t a new problem—God Himself pointed it out to His people long ago. I find myself reflecting on His message and asking: How well do I really know God?
What Is God Like?
Let’s start simple. Based on the Bible, God is faithful—He keeps His promises. He’s just—He cares about fairness and what’s right. He’s righteous—He always does what’s good and true. God isn’t distant, but wants to be known. In Jeremiah 9:23-24, He says, “Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength… but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they understand and know me.” God wants us to know Him personally, not just know about Him.
Distorted Views and Limited Understanding
It’s easy to develop a picture of God that fits our preferences or culture, but that might not match who He really is. The people of Israel often misunderstood God, thinking He cared more about rituals than their hearts. Similarly, many churches today can become more focused on growth, programs, or popularity than on truly following God’s ways. When our view of God is shaped by tradition, success, or even fear, we risk missing His true character and purpose.
Biblical Insights: What the Scriptures Reveal
Jeremiah 9:7 shows God’s concern for His people’s lack of understanding: “I will refine and test them, for what else can I do because of the sin of my people?” He’s not just upset about outward behavior—He wants transformation from the inside out. In Jeremiah 9:23-24, we see God values people who know Him, not just those who look good on the outside or seem successful. And in Matthew 5:13-16, Jesus calls His followers to be “the salt of the earth” and “the light of the world.” Salt preserves and adds flavor; light reveals and guides. Christians are meant to bring God’s goodness and truth into the world, showing what He’s like through how we live.
The Call to Authentic Faith
God isn’t looking for perfect church attendance, big donations, or impressive religious routines. He’s looking for hearts that genuinely seek Him. Knowing God means spending time with Him, listening to His voice, and letting His character shape ours. It means moving beyond surface-level faith to a deeper, more authentic relationship. We can start by asking honest questions, reading the Bible not just for information but for connection, and inviting God to show us more of Himself.
Salt and Light: What Does It Mean for Us?
Being “salt” means living in a way that prevents decay and brings out goodness wherever we are—at work, at home, in our communities. Being “light” means letting God’s love shine through us, offering hope and guidance to others. It’s not about being perfect, but about being different—in a good way. When we live authentically, people see something real and attractive. That’s how we fulfill God’s purpose, not by chasing worldly success, but by reflecting His character.
Conclusion: Invitation to a Deeper Relationship
If you’ve ever felt like your faith is stuck or routine, you’re not alone. God wants more for us—He wants us to truly know Him and live out that relationship in everyday life. Let’s make it our goal to move beyond superficial faith and distorted views, and seek the God who is faithful, just, and righteous. When we do, we become salt and light in a world that desperately needs it. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it. Let’s shine God’s light—together.
Minister A Francine Green
February 2026
afrancinegreen.com 