Biblical explanation
When Moses asked God to reveal His glory, God proclaimed His character: "The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth" (Exodus 34:6). This is one of the most important descriptions of God's character in Scripture. God is holy (Isaiah 6:3), meaning He is completely pure and separated from sin. He is righteous and just (Psalm 145:17). He is merciful and gracious (Psalm 103:8). He is faithful (Deuteronomy 7:9). Above all, Scripture says, "God is love" (1 John 4:8). Jesus Christ provides the clearest human revelation of this character. Jesus said, "he that hath seen me hath seen the Father" (John 14:9). The actions of Christ therefore help us understand God's character. Jesus healed the sick, welcomed sinners, defended the vulnerable, taught truth, confronted hypocrisy, forgave His enemies, and gave His life for humanity (Matthew 9:35-36; Luke 19:10; Luke 23:34). God's character is revealed progressively throughout Scripture, but the Bible does not suggest that God changed from being an angry Old Testament God into a loving New Testament God. Both Testaments describe God's mercy and judgment.
Key takeaway
Discipleship applies the gospel to the whole life: body, mind, relationships, work, finances, and worship. Healthy choices and faithful habits do not earn salvation; they are grateful stewardship of the life God has entrusted to us and practical ways to serve others.