Unfailing Goodness

By Shelly Baxter

"Unfailing" is a book that explores the unchanging and unwavering character of God's goodness. In a world that is often marked by suffering, pain, and disappointment, it can be easy to lose sight of God's goodness. But this book seeks to remind readers of the truth that God is always good, even when life doesn't make sense.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Apr 20, 2023
• ISBN: 9781312648098

Book preview

Unfailing Goodness:

The Very Heart of Who God Is

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Introduction

In a world that can sometimes feel harsh and uncertain, there is one constant source of unwavering goodness - Jesus Christ. As Christians, we believe that Jesus, the Son of God, came to Earth to reveal the boundless love and mercy of God the Father. Through his life, teachings, and actions, Jesus exemplified a love that is beyond measure, a goodness that is unfailing.

The story of Jesus' birth as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke is a testament to this very fact. From the angelic announcement to Mary and Joseph, to the humble birth in a manger, and the visit of the shepherds and the Magi, we see how Jesus' coming was marked by divine goodness. The fulfillment of prophecies, the miraculous conception, and the profound humility of Jesus' birth all point to His inherent goodness and God's unwavering love for humanity.

Jesus' teachings, as recorded in the Gospels, are a treasure trove of wisdom, compassion, and love. From the Sermon on the Mount to the parables, from His teachings on forgiveness and mercy, to His call for justice and righteousness, Jesus' words are a testament to his unfailing goodness. The teachings reveal the heart of God, a heart that is full of grace, compassion, and unending love for all people, regardless of their status, background, or mistakes. As Jesus said in John 14:9, If you have seen Me, you have seen the Father.

Jesus' ministry was marked by miraculous signs and wonders that demonstrated His unfailing goodness. From healing the sick, feeding the hungry, casting out demons, and raising the dead, the miracles were tangible expressions of His compassion and love. Through miracles, Jesus revealed his divine power and authority, and His unwavering commitment to alleviating suffering and restoring wholeness to those in need. Jesus' interactions with people throughout His ministry are a profound reflection of His unfailing goodness. During His encounters with sinners and outcasts, His interactions with the religious leaders and His own disciples, Jesus consistently displayed love, grace, and mercy. Whether it was the woman caught in adultery, the tax collector Zacchaeus, or the Samaritan woman at the well, Jesus showed unwavering goodness in his approach to all people, drawing them closer to God's heart.

The ultimate expression of Jesus' unfailing goodness is seen in his sacrificial death on the cross. Jesus willingly gave his life as a ransom for humanity, taking upon himself the sins of the world, (in fact He became sin) and offering redemption and salvation to all who believe in Him. His crucifixion and resurrection are the pinnacle of his unfailing goodness, revealing his immense love and compassion towards humanity, and providing a way for us to be reconciled with God. The unfailing goodness of Jesus is not limited to the past but continues to impact our lives today. Through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, Jesus' presence and goodness are with us, guiding, comforting, and transforming us. His teachings, example, and sacrifice continue to inspire us to live lives marked by love, compassion, and selflessness as we abide in Him. In this book, we will explore the richness of Scripture to reveal the profound goodness of God, and how it continues to impact our lives today.

CHAPTER 1

Exploring God's goodness in our time serves several purposes and holds significant