Who Is God Really?

I listened to a podcast recently that expressed this thought-who is God really? Is he the big loving God who wants to show His children that He accepts them as they are or is He the Big Mean God who is ready to whack us whenever we make a mistake or misstep or really screw things up?

I vote for the loving God...why? because I tried that mean one for about 40 yrs. or so and it didn't get me anywhere except frustrated, confused, and alienated from everyone in my family. As I have gotten to know the loving, creative, and forgiving God, I finally have friends who want to talk to me, not to mention the fact that I now get along a lot better with my children and husband.

Because I always thought God ruled with an iron fist, that's the way I "ruled". No one could cross the line with me because they knew they would get hammered with some bible verse that I could use for whatever offense they committed. I studied the Hebrew and Greek words and I knew what they meant.

But not only were those words sending people flying from my presence but it was shoving me further and further from Jesus Himself.

Boy am I glad He is patient...and kind...and loving...and doesn't become upset...and doesn't think too highly of Himself...

I Cor. 13...isn't this a picture of Christ Himself?? Isn't this who He is?? So why am I trying to make Him into some tyrant who demands justice and holiness? Isn't holiness a part of being whole?

Just some questions running thru my head...