Omniscience of God

The omniscience of God refers to His all-encompassing knowledge and understanding of all things, past, present, and future. This divine attribute is foundational to the nature of God as revealed in the Scriptures. God's omniscience is not limited by time or space, and it encompasses every detail of creation, including the thoughts and intentions of human hearts.

The psalmist declares, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit" (Psalm 147:5). This verse highlights the boundless nature of God's knowledge. Similarly, in Isaiah 46:9-10, God proclaims, "I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times what is still to come." This passage underscores God's ability to know the future as clearly as the past, affirming His sovereign control over history.

In the New Testament, the omniscience of God is further illustrated through the person of Jesus Christ. In John 2:24-25, it is written, "But Jesus did not entrust Himself to them, for He knew all men. He did not need any testimony about man, for He knew what was in a man." This insight into the hearts of individuals demonstrates the divine knowledge inherent in Christ, affirming His deity.

God's omniscience is also a source of comfort and assurance for believers. In Psalm 139:1-4, David reflects on God's intimate knowledge of him: "O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You understand my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down; You are aware of all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, You know all about it, O LORD." This passage reveals that God's knowledge is not distant or impersonal but deeply relational and caring.

Compassion of God

The compassion of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His deep love and mercy towards His creation. God's compassion is often depicted as a tender, fatherly care for His people, characterized by His willingness to forgive and restore.

In the Old Testament, God's compassion is frequently associated with His covenant relationship with Israel. In Exodus 34:6, God reveals Himself to Moses, saying, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This self-revelation highlights the compassionate nature of God as integral to His character.

The prophets also emphasize God's compassion. In Isaiah 49:15, God reassures His people, "Can a woman forget her nursing child, or lack compassion for the son of her womb? Even if she could forget, I will not forget you!" This metaphor of a mother's love illustrates the depth and constancy of God's compassion.

In the New Testament, the compassion of God is vividly demonstrated in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 9:36, it is recorded, "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." Jesus' compassion led Him to heal the sick, feed the hungry, and ultimately sacrifice Himself for the salvation of humanity.

The Apostle Paul also speaks of God's compassion in 2 Corinthians 1:3-4: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." This passage highlights the transformative power of God's compassion, enabling believers to extend the same mercy and comfort to others.

God's compassion is not only a response to human suffering but also a proactive initiative to bring about redemption and restoration. In Lamentations 3:22-23, it is written, "Because of the loving devotion of the LORD we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!" This assurance of God's unfailing mercy provides hope and renewal for His people.