Our Heavenly Father

• What does a good father do?

• How would you explain that God is your heavenly Father to someone who never had a good experience with his or her earthly father?

“This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.’“
Matthew 6:9

The ideal father is one who provides for his family and protects them. He is brave, strong and compassionate. He knows how to do just about everything. He is a role model to his sons, showing them how to be a man. To his daughters, he provides an example of how men should treat women and shows them what to look for in a husband. He instills a godly set of values and a solid work ethic in his children.

Unfortunately, we don’t live in an ideal world. Even the best earthly fathers have flaws. And the worst can do unspeakable harm to their children. Many kids have fathers who deserted them, abused them or abused others in front of them. As a result, their image of a father—earthly or heavenly—isn’t a very good one. They can’t imagine any father who will truly love and protect them.

God understands that, but he won’t be deterred by it. He wants to protect us and give us good things. He invites us to call him not just “Father” but “Daddy,” which is much more intimate. Our heavenly Father is compassionate and full of mercy. He wants to heal us, comfort us and encourage us. He wants to be our loving Daddy.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the privilege of calling you “Father.” Thank you for adopting us and treating us as your beloved children. Guide us as we try to bring glory to our family name. Amen.