“Yes, God is good!” we like to affirm. We want God’s goodness all of the time and in all that we do. But I wonder how clear our understanding is regarding God’s goodness. Actually, I don’t think God’s goodness would fit in to most definitions of “good.” The definition and references that I hear regarding the term “good,” and especially regarding God’s goodness, is dictated by what people see and experience rather than by the source of all good—God.

I wonder how many people would agree with Corrie Ten Boom’s view of God’s goodness. She wrote:

“Often I have heard people say, ‘How good God is! We prayed that it would not rain for our church picnic, and look at the lovely weather!’ Yes, God is good when He sends good weather. But God was also good when He allowed my sister, Betsie, to starve to death before my eyes in a German concentration camp. I remember one occasion when I was very discouraged there. Everything around us was dark, and there was darkness in my heart. I remember telling Betsie that I thought God had forgotten us. ‘No, Corrie,’ said Betsie, ‘He has not forgotten us. Remember His Word: “For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is His steadfast love toward those who fear Him.” ” Corrie concludes, “There is an ocean of God’s love available—there is plenty for everyone. May God grant you never to doubt that victorious love—whatever the circumstances.”

Is God only good when circumstances are to your liking? I didn’t say, only if they were to your benefit. That is completely different. God’s goodness is always to our benefit, but we aren’t always inclined, or able, to see circumstances from His point of view. That is why we must believe that God is good, always, faithfully, and perfectly. And why should learn what “good” is and what it is not.

I challenge you to examine your definition of good, which cannot be separated from God who is the author and originator of good. It may be a scary trail to go down, but it will be beneficial. Deepen your understanding and awareness of God’s goodness. He has revealed Himself in the scriptures. Search them for the truth about God, about true goodness.

Future posts will open this subject up and look inside the beauty, wonder, and fearful nature of the goodness of God. Yes, I said fearful. I hope that you will follow along.