When we know someone who is marvelous, just absolutely spectacular, and has so many wonderful qualities, we will often tell others about this special person. This is especially true when that one is the Lord God! Christians should want to tell others how great a Savior we have. The Book of Psalms is full of Scripture that brings praise to the Lord. And here in the Book of Romans, as in several other places, the Apostle Paul breaks into praise of the Lord God. Let’s look at some of the characteristics of God that Paul celebrates as he closes this chapter.
Earlier in the Book of Romans, Paul had been teaching how God’s plan of salvation was opened not only for the Jews, but also now for Gentiles, as well. Because of the majesty, grandeur, and wisdom of God’s plan of salvation, Paul broke forth in praise to Him. There were several characteristics of God that Paul enumerated in his praise of Him, and that being His knowledge, His judgments, and His ways (vs. 33). God has all wisdom and knowledge. He is omniscient, knowing everything. There is not a thing, whether modern, ancient, or anywhere in between, that God doesn’t know everything about. God’s judgments are His purposes and decrees. And His ways are the methods with which He chooses to accomplish everything He purposes or desires.
God’s ways cannot be found out by our intellect. They come only by revelation of the Holy Spirit to us, through His Word, the Bible. Although God’s methods and means are beyond our comprehension, God is not arbitrary. He governs the universe and our lives in perfect wisdom, justice, and love.
Sometimes it is hard to understand what our friend or loved one is thinking. No matter how close we are, it is difficult to fully understand them. Imagine then, is there anyone who can fully know the mind of God? As Paul tells us here, no one has fully understood the mind of the Lord (vs. 34). No one has been His counselor, or been able to give Him good advice, guidance, or instruction. He knows every side of every situation inside and out, and every event, past, present, and future. God surely doesn’t need to consult us about any plan, situation, or event! Because none of us can give God anything to help Him out, whether physically or through any counsel, God owes nothing to any one of us (vs. 35). On the contrary, we owe God everything, and He has already given us more than we can ever repay.
As the Apostle Paul concludes this doxology of praise to God, he reminds us that all of us are absolutely dependent on the Lord God (vs. 36). He is the source of all things, including our very selves. God is the source, the sustainer, and the rightful end of everything that exists.
In closing, knowing all of these magnificent qualities and characteristics of the Lord God, we should rightfully give Him glory. Giving God glory should be the desire of every Christian. Some false “Christian” teachers indicate that our priority should be seeking our own prosperity, and of attaining more abilities. However, giving God praise and glory is our primary purpose. As His Blood-bought children, we are “of Him and through Him” (vs. 36). We need to start living our lives “to Him”, making God our only object of desire throughout our lives. As Paul closes, we can echo his final words - to whom be glory forever! Amen!
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