An observer of our planet, safely ensconced in a distant world--and, in my imagination, looking remarkably like our own, cynical Mark Twain--must find the denizens of our planet either amusing or maddening. Particularly our assumptions and judgments around others. For despite our own personal uncertainties and insecurities, we tend to evaluate others--albeit, perhaps, unconsciously--using ourselves as the objective standard.

Unfortunately, many of us--the religious and irreligious, alike--similarly tend to imagine God as but a mere reflection of our "better" selves. Or as the Swiss philosopher Rosseau observed, "God created man in his own image. And man, being a gentleman, returned the favor." Writer Anne Lamott suggested, "You can safely assume that you've created God in your own image, when it turns out that God hates all the same people you do."

Try this little exercise. How would you describe the seven defining qualities of God? (Please, don't move forward without first putting pen to paper.) Once you've made your list, read Exodus 34:5-7. How did God himself describe his seven defining qualities?

How do your perceptions of God compare with his own perceptions of his seven defining qualities? What are the noteworthy differences between the two lists? What's the "rock-bottom-true" learning?

Now, let's go deeper. How would you describe the three expectations God has of you? (Again, record your own impressions before moving to the next step. No, really.) Once you've recorded your assumptions, read Micah 6:6-8. What does God himself identify as his three expectations of men and women?

How do your assumptions of God's expectations of you compare with his actual expectations? What are the noteworthy differences between the two lists? What's the "rock-bottom-true" learning?

How might your relationships--with both God and neighbor--improve if your perception of God and his expectations of you were more accurate?

A note for richer study: The words of the original Hebrew text of these two passages are likely much more nuanced than their English counterparts.

You might find it profitable to compare the renderings of multiple versions--including, for example, the New American Standard Bible, The New International Version, The New Living Translation, The Message--to see how different translations and paraphrases interpret the words. Consulting multiple translations and paraphrases goes far in effectively overcoming our inability to read the "source" language.

Or, consult a dictionary of biblical Hebrew. Don't rely on a contemporary dictionary, for it will only reflect the current usage of the English translation of the ancient Hebrew word.

All of these resources are available for use on the web without charge. See, for example, studylight.org.