It’s a question that has echoed through history, theology, and hearts: What is God like?
We can know facts about God—He is powerful, holy, loving—but understanding His nature is deeper than memorizing a list of attributes. The nature of God affects how we see the world, how we respond to life’s trials, and how we develop our relationship with Him.
So, what does the Bible tell us about the nature of God? Let’s take a deep dive into who He is, what He has revealed about Himself, and why it matters for your life today.
God Is Eternal
Let’s start with the foundation: God has no beginning and no end. This idea is mind-blowing to our human understanding, but it’s clearly declared in Scripture.
Psalm 90:2 (ESV) says, “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”
God is outside of time. He created time. He doesn’t age, doesn’t change, and is never surprised by anything that happens. That eternal nature gives us confidence—He sees the full picture, not just what’s happening in our moment.
God Is Holy
“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory!” (Isaiah 6:3 ESV)
God’s holiness means He is completely set apart, perfect, and pure. His holiness is not just one aspect of who He is—it’s the central reality that touches everything else. Because God is holy, His love is pure, His justice is fair, and His power is never misused.
When we begin to grasp His holiness, we start to understand our need for a Savior. Holiness highlights the gap between humanity and God—and the beauty of Jesus bridging that gap.
God Is Love
Many people know the famous verse: “God is love” (1 John 4:8). But biblical love isn’t just a warm feeling—it’s self-sacrificing, covenantal, and rooted in action.
God’s love is shown in His faithfulness to Israel, in His patience with us, and most clearly in the sacrifice of Jesus. John 3:16 reminds us: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son…”
Understanding that God is love changes how we relate to Him. He doesn’t just act loving—He is love. His motives, His plans, His commands are all born out of perfect love for His creation.
God Is Just
Justice is part of God’s nature. He cannot overlook sin or pretend evil doesn’t exist. That might sound intimidating, but it’s actually comforting—we all long for justice in a broken world.
Psalm 89:14 says, “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne.”
God’s justice ensures that every wrong will be addressed—either by Jesus on the cross or at the final judgment. His justice isn’t cold or cruel; it’s holy and righteous.
God Is Merciful and Gracious
While God is just, He is also overflowing with mercy and grace.
Exodus 34:6 is one of the most repeated descriptions of God in the Bible: “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.”
Mercy is God withholding the punishment we deserve. Grace is Him giving us blessings we don’t deserve. This part of His nature is what allows us to come to Him, again and again, even when we fail.
God Is Omniscient, Omnipotent, and Omnipresent
These big theological words describe incredible truths about God:
- Omniscient – God knows everything. There’s no thought, emotion, or event hidden from Him.
- Omnipotent – God is all-powerful. He created everything with a word and holds the universe together.
- Omnipresent – God is everywhere. You can’t go where God is not.
Psalm 139 captures these attributes beautifully. In verse 7, David writes, “Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence?”
These traits aren’t just abstract truths—they offer comfort. When you feel alone, God is there. When you don’t know what to do, God already knows. When you feel powerless, He is strong.
God Is Unchanging
Malachi 3:6 declares, “For I the Lord do not change…”
In a world that shifts constantly, God’s unchanging nature is an anchor for our souls. His promises never expire. His character doesn’t evolve. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).
You don’t have to wonder if God is in a bad mood or if He’s changed His mind about you. He is steady, faithful, and dependable.
God Is Relational
From the very beginning, God has desired relationship. He walked with Adam and Eve in the garden. He spoke with Moses as a friend. He sent His Son to reconcile us back to Himself. And He gives His Spirit to dwell within us.
God’s nature is not distant or disconnected. He draws near to His people. He listens. He speaks through His Word. He comforts, corrects, and leads. He’s not a force—He’s a person.
Jeremiah 29:13 says, “You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.”
The God of the universe invites us to know Him.
God Is Triune
One of the most mysterious but essential truths about God’s nature is that He is triune—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Not three gods, but one God in three persons.
- The Father initiates creation, salvation, and loving relationship.
- The Son, Jesus Christ, took on flesh, died for our sins, and rose again.
- The Holy Spirit indwells believers, empowering us and guiding us into truth.
The Trinity reveals a relational, unified God—one who has always existed in perfect love and community. And that love is extended to us.
Why Understanding God’s Nature Matters
Studying God’s nature is not just for theologians—it’s for anyone who wants to grow in their faith.
When you know that God is holy, you take sin seriously.
When you know that God is love, you trust Him even when life is hard.
When you know that God is just, you stop carrying the weight of vengeance.
When you know that God is merciful, you fall at His feet with gratitude.
When you know that God is unchanging, you find peace in a chaotic world.
The more we know about God, the more we can trust Him. And the more we trust Him, the more we can live in freedom.
How Do We Learn About God’s Nature?
God has revealed Himself in several powerful ways:
- Through Scripture – The Bible is the primary way we know who God is. Every page points to Him.
- Through Jesus – Jesus is the exact imprint of God’s nature (Hebrews 1:3). Want to know what God is like? Look at Jesus.
- Through the Holy Spirit – The Spirit guides us into truth and helps us understand God’s Word.
- Through Creation – Nature testifies to His power, creativity, and care.
- Through Relationship – As we walk with Him daily in prayer, worship, and obedience, we experience His presence.
Let’s Talk!
Have you ever wondered what God is really like? Does studying His nature bring you peace—or sometimes more questions? You’re not alone, and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.
Let’s grow together.
Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below, or join the conversation on Instagram @faithandformulas. I’d love to hear what you’re learning as you study Scripture and seek to know God more deeply.
👉 Question for you: What’s one attribute of God that has changed how you see Him or how you live?
