15 Minute Bible Study
Our Heavenly Father
Study passage: John 5:19-20

SCRIPTURE'S TITLES FOR GOD each describe a distinct aspect of His nature, such as Creator, Almighty, and Rock. Jesus most often referred to Him as Father. Through the Savior, we have become "sons of God" and "co-heirs" with Christ. (Galatians 4:4-7)

To understand God as our Father, consider the example of the Son's relationship with Him. Jesus . . .

• had a deep intimacy with the Father. As a child watches his earthly father's every move, Jesus carefully observed His heavenly Father's activity. (John 5:19-37)

• identified God not simply as a father, but as His own Father (John 14:2; 15:1), who is personal, loving, and
intimate. (Matthew 6:4-8, 25-34; 11:25; John 17:25-26)   

• Jesus showed complete devotion to His Father, as shown in His final words from the cross. (Luke 23:46)

 

Unfortunately, many of us have difficulty understanding God as our "Father" because either we didn't know our earthly father or our relationship with him was poor. In fact, my own grasp of this concept was affected by the loss of my earthly father. To better comprehend the value of God's role as Father, note His characteristics:

• He loves each of us completely and unconditionally; His love doesn't depend on our performance or behavior. (1 John 4:8)

• He listens to us, cares about every detail of our lives, and wants to guide us in everything. (2 Chronicles 7:14-15, Psalm 32:8; Proverbs 3:5-6)

• He is a providing Father who knows our deepest needs even when we ourselves do not. (Philippians 4:19, Matthew 6:25-34).   

• He is our Protector, physically and spiritually, and He will never leave us. (Hebrews 13:5)

• He knows what is best for us, and He disciplines us for our welfare. (Hebrews 12:5-11).

To reject this kind of Father is to reject life at its best. God strongly desires to be actively involved in your life. Will you grant Him this privilege?

QUESTION FOR REFLECTION—
What thought patterns, struggles, or habits are molded by you or your environment instead of by your heavenly Father? Ask Him to reveal areas of your life into which He has not been invited.