God’s Understanding: Beyond Our Comprehension

 

Scripture Readings:

• Psalm 139:1–6 – “O Lord, you have searched me and known me! … Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it.”

• Psalm 147:5 – “Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure.”

• Romans 11:33 – “Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!”

• 1 John 3:20 – “For whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything.”

Introduction

We live in an age where knowledge is at our fingertips. With a quick search, we can learn about the mysteries of the universe, the depths of the ocean, and the inner workings of the human body. And yet, despite all our learning, Scripture reminds us that God's understanding far surpasses our own.

God’s Knowledge Is Personal (Psalm 139:1–6)

Psalm 139 speaks of a God who knows us intimately—our thoughts, our words before we speak them, our paths before we take them. Unlike human understanding, which is often superficial, God’s knowledge reaches to the very core of our being. David acknowledges that such knowledge is “too wonderful” for him to grasp. How often do we try to make sense of our own lives, yet fail to see the full picture? God, in His infinite understanding, sees not just our present, but our past and future, and He knows what is best for us.

God’s Understanding Is Infinite (Psalm 147:5)

The psalmist declares that God’s understanding is beyond measure. No human mind can calculate the depths of His wisdom. While we struggle with uncertainty and unanswered questions, God’s knowledge is complete. He is never surprised, never caught off guard, and never lacking in wisdom. In our confusion, we can trust the One whose wisdom is limitless.

God’s Ways Are Beyond Our Grasp (Romans 11:33)

Paul, in his letter to the Romans, marvels at the mystery of God’s wisdom. He acknowledges that God’s judgments and ways are beyond human comprehension. This reminds us that there will always be aspects of God's plans that we do not understand. Yet, rather than frustration, Paul responds with worship. When we encounter trials or mysteries beyond our understanding, our response should not be doubt, but faith. If we could fully understand God, He would not be God!

God’s Knowledge Brings Comfort (1 John 3:20)

Finally, John tells us that God’s knowledge extends even to our hearts. Sometimes, our own hearts condemn us—we feel unworthy, broken, or beyond redemption. But God knows everything, including the depths of His own mercy. While we see our failures, He sees His grace at work in us. His perfect knowledge means that even when we don’t understand ourselves, He does. And He loves us still.

Conclusion

God’s understanding is not just vast—it is personal. He knows us fully, guides us wisely, and loves us completely. When life doesn’t make sense, we can trust in His infinite wisdom. And when our hearts condemn us, we can rest in His perfect knowledge and grace.

Let us, like Paul, respond to the mystery of God’s understanding not with frustration, but with worship.

“Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! To Him be glory forever. Amen.” (Romans 11:33, 36)

More: Sabbath School Lesson 1 Some Principles of Prophecy