“Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” — John 17:3 (NIV)
Do you know someone who’s a rare soul—full of layers and surprises?
My mother is the first person who comes to mind. She’s extraordinary—complex and full of unexpected qualities. She can cook a full dinner with ease and bake like a professional, a rare combination for most. Her deep love for God and family shines through, yet she’s anything but stereotypical. She loves dancing to oldies and has the unique ability to genuinely connect with people half her age, who enjoy her company just as much as her peers do. But don’t be fooled—she’s got a fiery side, too. Cross her family, especially her grandbabies, and you’ll quickly learn she’s not one to be played with.
My mom is layered with personality, love, and mercy—someone I appreciate more with each passing day. Though we often disagreed when I was younger, our relationship matured and transformed over time.
Reflecting on my journey makes me think of my relationship with God. As a teenager and young adult, I struggled to appreciate Him. I saw Him as distant and perfect, and I constantly felt like I could never meet His standards. But as life unfolded and challenges pushed me back toward Him, I discovered that He was always near, meeting me where I was every single time. As I began to seek Him in prayer and Scripture, I uncovered more of His true nature: His patience, justice, mercy, protection, and above all, His incredible love.
The more I searched for Him, the more I found Him, just as His Word promises: “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13, NKJV). Today, I know Him so much better, yet every time I feel like I am starting to grasp His love or His character, He reveals another layer filled with depth, mystery, and wonder that leaves me in awe. God has never asked for my perfection. What He desires is that I embrace His love and grace and allow them to guide the way I live.
Three Things I Have Learned About God
Of the many truths I’ve discovered, three stand out most:
💖 God’s Love Is the Greatest Love—Because He Is Love
Not sentimental love, but gritty, enduring love—the kind of love that gave His Son for us.
- “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” — Romans 5:8 (NIV)
- “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” — Psalm 103:8 (NIV)
⏳ God’s Timing Is Perfect
Some seasons feel slow, while others move quickly. But looking back, every moment carried divine purpose. Every delay carved a space for growth. Every detour prepared me for something greater.
- “He has made everything beautiful in its time.” — Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NIV)
😄 God Has a Sense of Humor
Scripture and life reveal His joy and humor—whether through laughter, irony, or unexpected surprises. God delights in bringing us joy and reminding us that sometimes, we simply need to laugh and trust Him.
- “The One enthroned in heaven laughs…” — Psalm 2:4 (NIV)
- “A time to weep and a time to laugh…” — Ecclesiastes 3:4 (NIV)
There is still so much to learn. I am fascinated by the glimpses of what I have discovered about Him.
I don’t know where you are on your journey with God—whether you are a seasoned believer or just beginning—but I hope you continue to renew your love for Him. Your journey may look different from mine, but the promise remains the same: when you seek Him with all your heart, you will find Him. God longs to reveal His layers of love, mercy, and faithfulness to you in ways that are personal and life-changing. The story of His love is not only mine—it is yours as well. May you walk each day with the confidence that His love is deeper than you have yet imagined.
It is a privilege to know God—because to know Him is to love Him. And to love Him is to truly live.
Let’s Reflect
- When have you experienced God revealing a new “layer” of His character to you?
- What truth about Him, His love, His timing, or His joy is relevant to your current season?
- How might you seek Him more intentionally this week, trusting that He will reveal Himself?
Let’s Pray
Father, thank You for the privilege of knowing You. Forgive me for the times I’ve settled for distant knowledge instead of intimate relationship. Reveal to me more of Your love, mercy, and joy. Help me to trust Your timing, delight in Your presence, and see the depth of who You are. May my life reflect that knowing You is the greatest treasure and the source of eternal life.
Amen.
