The Goodness of God: A Living Reality Revealed in Action
- Hope For All Nations Church
- May 5
- 4 min read
We serve a God whose nature is goodness itself. His actions are generous, His plans are redemptive, and His love is transformational.
We often hear that “God is good,” especially during times of joy. But what does that really mean when life feels heavy? Is God still good when prayers seem unanswered or circumstances feel out of control? The answer is a resounding yes.
The goodness of God is not circumstantial. It is anchored in His unchanging character and revealed through both scripture and everyday life. From Genesis to Revelation, we see God’s goodness as a thread woven through His relationships with humanity—redeeming, restoring, providing, and empowering.
Let’s walk through three powerful scriptural examples—Deuteronomy 28:12, Malachi 3:10, and the book of Philemon—and draw out tactical, real-life applications that reflect how God’s goodness still flows today.
The Goodness of God in Provision: Deuteronomy 28:12
“The Lord will open to you His good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hand.” – Deut. 28:12 (NKJV)
This verse is part of a larger promise God made to Israel: if they obeyed Him, He would bless their land, labour, and livelihood. God’s goodness is not passive—it is intentional and activated through a covenant relationship.
Biblical Example: Joseph in Egypt
Joseph went from the pit to the palace. Even as a slave and prisoner, God's favour rested on him. In Genesis 39, we read that “the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a successful man.” Ultimately, Joseph managed the entire food economy of Egypt, feeding millions during the famine.
That’s divine provision—not just enough for survival but abundance to bless others.
Tactical Life Example:
A Christian entrepreneur launched a business during an economic downturn. Sales were slow, but she remained faithful to prayer and generosity. Months later, an influencer unexpectedly endorsed her product, and orders skyrocketed. She tithed from the increase and watched God keep multiplying.
Takeaway: God’s goodness flows when we align with His wisdom. He blesses what you’re willing to surrender.
The Goodness of God in Overflow: Malachi 3:10
“Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in My house, and try Me now in this if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you such blessing that there will not be room enough to receive it.” – Malachi 3:10 (NKJV)
This is the only place in Scripture where God dares us to test Him. Why? Because His goodness longs to be experienced, not just believed from a distance.
Biblical Example: The Widow of Zarephath (1 Kings 17)
She had only enough flour and oil to make a final meal before dying. Yet when Elijah asked her to give it in faith, she did—and God caused her oil and flour to never run out during the famine.
It wasn’t about wealth—it was about overflow in scarcity. That’s supernatural goodness.
Tactical Life Example:
A single mother gave her last $50 to a family in need. The next day, her rent, previously past due, was anonymously paid in full. She didn’t tithe out of excess, but out of faith. God opened the windows of heaven.
Takeaway: God doesn’t want your leftovers. He wants your first fruits. And when you trust Him with the seed, He responds with the harvest.
The Goodness of God in Transformation: The Book of Philemon
The shortest of Paul’s letters, Philemon tells a beautiful story of transformation, forgiveness, and identity. Onesimus, a runaway slave, meets Paul in prison and becomes a believer. Paul sends him back—not as property, but as a brother in Christ.
"that you might have him back forever—no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother.” – Philemon 1:15-16
God’s goodness isn’t just about giving stuff—it’s about changing people.
Biblical Example: The Apostle Paul Himself
Paul was once Saul—a persecutor of Christians. But God’s goodness appeared on the road to Damascus (Acts 9) and turned a murderer into a missionary. That’s the redemptive power of grace.
Tactical Life Example:
A former gang member now leads a youth ministry. After an encounter with Christ in prison, he repented and turned his life around. Today, he rescues young men from the same streets he once ruled. His testimony draws hundreds to salvation.
Takeaway: God’s goodness isn’t just to forgive your past—it’s to reframe your future.
The Characteristics of the Goodness of God
Let’s break down the defining traits of God’s goodness so you can recognize and trust them:
1. Generous
God doesn’t just give enough—He gives in overflow. (Ephesians 3:20)
2. Intentional
Everything He does has a purpose—even the delays. (Romans 8:28)
3. Faithful
Even when we are faithless, He remains faithful. (2 Timothy 2:13)
4. Transformative
He doesn’t leave you how He found you. (2 Corinthians 5:17)
5. Relational
God’s goodness is not a vending machine—it flows through a relationship with Him. (John 15:5)
How to Position Yourself for God's Goodness
God’s goodness is available, but often we need to position our hearts to receive it.
Obey promptly – Delayed obedience often delays the blessing.
Give generously – It’s not about the amount but the heart behind it.
Walk by faith – God rewards those who trust Him beyond what they can see.
Forgive quickly – Bitterness blocks blessings. God’s goodness flows through mercy.
Expect miracles – His goodness shows up in the natural and supernatural.
You may not feel it every day, but the goodness of God is chasing you down (Psalm 23:6). He is not withholding—He is working. He is not punishing—you’re being pruned. And He is not far—He is right there in the middle of it.
Lean into His character. Reflect on His track record. And position your life to see His goodness—not just in theory but in reality.
Reflection Questions:
Where have you seen God’s goodness in your own life?
What area do you need to surrender today to experience His provision or transformation?
How can you be an extension of God’s goodness to others?
Loved this post? Share it with a friend who needs to remember God’s faithfulness today.
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