Rooted: A Journey Through the Larger Catechism
Post 7- What Is God?
Q7. What is God?
A. God is a Spirit, in and of himself infinite in being, glory, blessedness, and perfection; all-sufficient, eternal, unchangeable, incomprehensible, everywhere present, almighty, knowing all things, most wise, most holy, most just, most merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.
Beyond Definition, Yet Revealed
The question “What is God?” is not just theological—it’s existential.
Every decision we make, every way we live, every hope we hold is shaped by who we believe God is.
The catechism doesn’t describe a distant abstraction. It gives us a majestic summary of the living God—Spirit, infinite, perfect, and near.
This isn’t just a list of attributes. It’s a glimpse into the nature of the God we worship, follow, and love.
1.
God Is a Spirit
“God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” — John 4:24
God is not bound by material or spatial limitations. He cannot be confined to temples, statues, or systems. He is unseen—yet ever-present, eternal and transcendent, but intimately near.
Reflection: I can’t control or contain God. And that’s good news. He is bigger than my categories—and still chooses to dwell with me.
2.
Infinite in Being, Glory, Blessedness, and Perfection
God has no beginning, no end, no flaw, and no need. His glory doesn’t fade, and His joy isn’t fragile.
Being — He is self-existent, uncreated.
Glory — He radiates unmatched majesty.
Blessedness — He is full of joy and satisfaction in Himself.
Perfection — He lacks nothing and possesses all virtue to the highest degree.
Reflection: I draw strength from things that are limited. But God’s strength is limitless. He doesn’t run out of wisdom, peace, or power.
3.
All-Sufficient, Eternal, Unchangeable
God doesn’t need us—yet chooses to love us.
All-sufficient — He depends on nothing.
Eternal — He is not bound by time.
Unchangeable — He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
“From everlasting to everlasting, You are God.” — Psalm 90:2
“I the Lord do not change.” — Malachi 3:6
Reflection: In a world of shifting values and unstable circumstances, I find rest in God’s unchanging nature.
4.
Incomprehensible, Everywhere Present, Almighty
These attributes remind us that while God reveals Himself, He is still beyond full grasp.
Incomprehensible — We can truly know Him, but never fully.
Everywhere Present — He fills heaven and earth.
Almighty — His power has no rival, limit, or threat.
“Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable.” — Psalm 145:3
5.
All-Knowing, Most Wise
Nothing escapes God’s knowledge. And more than that, He knows perfectly—not just facts, but purpose.
“O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God!” — Romans 11:33
Reflection: God never has to guess. He never says “Oops.” And He never needs my backup plan.
6.
Most Holy, Most Just
God’s holiness is not just about moral purity—it’s about being set apart, completely other, totally righteous.
Most Holy — There is no sin in Him.
Most Just — All His ways are right and fair.
“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts…” — Isaiah 6:3
“Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne…” — Psalm 89:14
Reflection: His holiness exposes my sin—but His justice assures me that evil will not win.
7.
Most Merciful and Gracious, Long-Suffering, Abundant in Goodness and Truth
And here is the hope of every believer:
God is merciful toward the guilty.
Gracious to the unworthy.
Patient with the rebellious.
Overflowing with love and faithfulness.
“The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” — Psalm 145:8
Reflection: God doesn’t love reluctantly. He delights in mercy. That truth humbles me—and lifts me.
My Prayer
Lord, You are beyond words—yet You have revealed Yourself so that I might know You, worship You, and walk with You. Help me never to reduce You to something manageable. Help me live in awe of who You are—infinite, holy, just, merciful, and near.