Catechism: Why Break the Mold?نموونە

As humans, sometimes we tend to create labels and images of people and things based on our limited understanding and experiences. This is particularly true when it comes to God, as he is infinite and beyond our understanding.

But it is important to note that trying to fit God into a box - a mold or image - that we can understand or control can prevent us from getting to know who he truly is. We should, instead, approach God with humility and reverence, recognizing that he is the Creator of the universe and the source of all life. Instead of trying to fit God into a little box of understanding, we should seek to know him as he reveals himself to us through Scripture, prayer, and personal experience.

When we approach God with an open mind and heart, we can begin to understand his character and his desire for us to have a personal relationship with him. We can experience his love, grace, and mercy made available to us through faith in Jesus.

Exodus records an account of the Israelites making a calf out of gold to represent God. They melted down their jewelry and created a form, an idol, to gather around and praise. Even though God had been revealing himself to them all along, they didn’t really know him. So when they felt uncertain about their situation, they created a mold, something they knew and were comfortable with, to worship. But in doing so, they missed out on experiencing the one true God.

What about you? What molds have you created for God? And are you willing to break them? When we step into a trusting relationship with God, through time and effort, we discover more about who he really is and what he’s really like. He wants to destroy the idols and molds we’ve made about him and reveal who he truly is. Will you let him show you?

Consider: Our all powerful God desires to be known, and he has chosen to reveal himself to us. Why would he do that? What might he want?

Reflect: Are there any beliefs I hold about God that aren’t from Scripture? Am I making assumptions about him without spending time with him in prayer or reading the Bible?