By Michael Youssef, Ph D.  May 30, 2020

Many of us have memories of our fathers. Some memories may be good, but others may be sad or painful. Whatever our feelings toward our earthly father, there is no comparison to our heavenly Father. He is greater than any earthly father could possibly be. Jesus reminds us, “Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” (Matthew 7:9-11). Our heavenly Father loves us with an unconditional love and will never cease to demonstrate His mercy and grace toward us.

That is why Jesus taught His disciples to pray, “Our Father.” The phrase “Our Father” reduces all the complications of life to a very simple relationship. Through faith in the shed blood of Christ, we have been redeemed from sin and have been adopted into God’s family. As a child of God, have you exercised your right to call Him your Father?

When we come to our heavenly Father in prayer, He removes our fear. He gives us hope and confidence. He banishes our uncertainty. The apostle Paul said, “The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry ’Abba, Father’” (Romans 8:15).

Your heavenly Father is interested in every area of your life. In Him you have protection, safety, security, serenity, peace, and salvation. Friends may disappoint you, and family may let you down, but your heavenly Father will never leave you nor forsake you (see Hebrews 13:5). He is eager to hear your prayers to Him.

Therefore, call upon Him. Place your trust in Him. Share your hopes, problems, dreams, and concerns with the one who knows you better than you know yourself. As your Father, He will give you joy for today and hope for tomorrow.

Prayer: Father, thank You for adopting me as Your child, making me Your heir. Help me fully embrace my standing before You, resting in Your grace and love. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

“I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:18).