Take time to read Exodus 34:6-7 aloud together and then write down the passage, each in your own handwriting. Then write it again using your own words.
Notice the way Exodus 34:7 begins the way it ends. How does God’s loyal love relate to his justice?
Underline the five characteristics of God named in verse 6 and then circle repeated words and concepts that we notice in verses 6-7. What do you observe about the repetitions and structure?
Take time to discuss other themes, questions, or key takeaways from what you learned together.
In the Bible, God’s compassion is consistently shown as both an emotional and active reality. What does God do when he feels compassionate? How does he respond when his people return to him in order to follow him? (See Deuteronomy 4:29-31, Micah 7:19, Isaiah 14:1, Isaiah 49:10, and Jeremiah 30:18)
God’s ancient people fail to return to his ways and end up in exile. Read Isaiah 49:15-16, where God assures his people of his compassion during a dark chapter in Israel’s history. What comes to mind when you consider God’s compassion for his people being related to a mother’s care for her infant?
The Hebrew word for “gracious” in Exodus is “khanun”, which is related to the Hebrew noun “khen”. This word, “khen,” is often translated as “grace,” but it can also be translated with words like “delight,” “favour,” “charm,” or “beauty.” People with wise, eloquent, or physically beautiful qualities naturally attract khen. Read Provebs 1:8-9, 22:11, and 31:30 in a few translations. What do you notice about how your Bible translates the word “khen”? Discuss the different ways khen is used in these examples.
To say that God is “long of nose” is to day that he is patient – it takes him a long time before he becomes angry. He gives people time to respond to his gracious warning. In your culture, what expressions are used to describe a patient person?
In 2 Peter 3:9, we read one of the reasons behind God’s patience. How would you interpret this passage? What does it suggest to you about God’s character, and how does that change the way you see yourself and others?
The Hebrew word “khesed” combines the ideas of unconditional love, generosity, and enduring commitment. Read Psalm 136 aloud in your group, with each person using a different translation if possible. How do various translations help you understand the rich meaning of God’s forever enduring khesed?
Read Ruth 1:5-19. How does Ruth show khesed to her mother-in-law? How does this example support your understanding of what it means that God has khesed for us?
The Hebrew word “emet” is translated with words like “faithful,” “reliable,” “sure,” “trustworthy,” and “amen.” Read aloud Psalm 36:5-6, Psalm 19:7, and Psalm 41:13 and discuss what the psalmists are communicating in these passages when they use the word “emet.”
God promised the Israelites that he would give them a king of peace that would rule forever and ever (e.g. 2 Samuel 7:16). However, Israel’s kingdom collapsed and they found themselves without a home or a king. Compare the beginning of Psalm 89 (vv.1-10) with the way it closes (vv.46-52). What do you think it practically looks like to trust God when all seems lost?
