I enjoyed a “Leave it to Beaver” childhood! We lived in a nice house in a peaceful neighborhood where there were lots of bicycles and skateboards. I had an older brother like Wally. My mom wore a dress, an apron and high-heels... (No, that’s not right.) My dad went to work every day and returned home just as mom set the roast and potatoes on the dining room table. Really! That’s the way it was.
When I hear someone say, “dad” or “daddy,” I smile, remembering happy and wholesome years. My dad was, and remains, a great guy, a great role model, teacher, mentor, and friend. He disciplined me regularly, and he always loved me.
“As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him” (Psalm 103:13, ESV).
I understand what the psalmist was saying!
The Almighty, Sovereign, Creator, is a Father to His children! Hallelujah! He loves me! He provides for me! He protects me! He gave me His name! I’m His, and He is mine!
When I hurt, He’s ready to wrap me up in a hug.
When I have questions and worries, He’s available to listen and give guidance.
When I’m afraid, He steps in to protect me and defeat my worst enemies.
Jesus taught us to pray, “Our Father in heaven...” (Matthew 6:9, ESV). That’s comforting and encouraging!
The Apostle Paul wrote, “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’ The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:14-17, ESV).
For too many, the designation father conjures up hurt, and even hate. Kids are abused and neglected by their dads. Often, dad is a complete absentee. Other dads are so focused on their career and golf-game that children are ignored and feel abandoned.
My Abba Father is not the dead-beat, absentee or abusive Father. He is “Father of Mercies and God of all comfort” (II Corinthians 1:3, ESV).
God is Father ... the perfect Father with no human faults, failings, or frailties.
Yes, He is God! But He is not distant or distracted. He is Abba ... Daddy ... Father!
Let your Daddy love you today!