Zeus Need Not Apply

(Psa 136:1 KJV)  O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

(Proverbs 4 also read)

And so this chapter starts.  It goes through many of the acts of God starting with creation.  Common to every verse is that simple ending statement.  What is key to this chapter is not the long list of actions of God but the statement about His central character.  Two English words are used in most translations I have, “lovingkindness” (2617a) [chesed] and “mercy”.  

It struck me as I read in the early morning how different the God of the Bible is from other deities.  The difference from the impersonal forces of Eastern religions is obvious but if you go through other cultures it is just as clear.  Compare YHVH TO Zeus, or any of the Greek or Roman Gods.  Night and day.  One is capable of creating the universe and the others are best known for their temper tantrums and self centered tirades.  How about Thor?  Consider the gods of the Aztec and Maya cultures.  

So?  Our God is unique.  He can be bloody but it is not the senseless destruction that you see in other religions.  He is more known for His mercy and lovingkindness.  Rejoice and worship.