Imitation Begins with Awe

Becky senses she’s missing the rulebook for life, and insecurity hovers over her constantly. Eric reveres God deeply, but the weight of worship leaves him feeling tense and joyless in everyday moments. Both long to reflect God’s character but often feel more burdened than buoyant.

That struggle is common when we study God’s attributes. If we try to imitate without first admiring, each divine attribute becomes another standard to meet rather than a source of rest. Instead, what if we paused in wonder at who God is happy, simple, delighting in us before trying to be like Him?

God Is Joyful

Nehemiah declared, “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). When our heavenly Father rejoices over us, we gain resilience not exhaustion. Just as children sense freedom when their parents are content, so we flourish when we know God smiles upon us. That delight empowers us to imitate Him not out of obligation, but from joy.

God Is Simple

Many struggle when they pit God’s attributes against each other His justice versus His mercy, His holiness versus His kindness. But Scripture teaches that God does not contain conflict within Himself; He is simple, unified in every way.

That means His commands don’t pull us in opposite directions. He doesn’t say, “Do X because I am loving,” and “Avoid X because I am holy,” as if those attributes contradict. Instead, where His attributes intersect, true clarity emerges even when life remains complex.

Admiration Leads the Way

Imagine a child torn between homework, chores, and attending Grandma’s birthday. Overwhelmed, he fears he cannot please his parents and begins to break down. But if his parents smile, affirm his efforts, and help him prioritize, the child relaxes. He feels loved even while he still must make choices and sometimes disappoint.

God’s joy in us, and His coherent character, function like good parenting: delightful and simple enough to trust, even when our world feels hard. That delight becomes a well to draw from when we want to rejoice in Him, not recoil in fear.

Rest, Then Reflect

Ephesians 5:1 urges, “Be imitators of God, as beloved children.” But imitation starts with being loved. Understanding that God delights in our heart’s posture frees us from pretending perfection and empowers us to grow over time.

Ecclesiastes 12:13 captures the beautiful simplicity of our calling: “Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” We can wear this truth humbly like a child trying on a proud parent’s shoes, imperfect but earnest.

Practical Rhythms for Today

• Visualize God smiling as you approach prayer or confession. Imagine Him pulling you close, not frowning in disappointment.

• Celebrate small growth, not because perfection impresses Him, but because every step toward Christ brings Him joy.

• Rest in His simplicity when your decisions conflict. Center your heart on fear of God, gratitude for His delight, and trust that His attributes weave together harmoniously.

Under a Happy, Simple God

As you live today, pause to notice the simple moments of joy and presence. Whether it’s a quiet morning cup of coffee, a heartfelt prayer, or an unhurried conversation, let the awareness of God’s delighted gaze over you echo your own pleasure.

You don’t start by imitating you start by admiring. And in that admiration, true transformation begins.

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