Dr. Charles Stanley
Read | 1 John 3:1-3
When we hear the word “father,” what images come to mind? Couch potato or hardworking? Stern or enthusiastic? Available or absent? No matter what strengths or weaknesses our earthly dads may have had, we have a heavenly Father who is perfect.
Jesus’ life provides us with a picture of God as our Father. We see the Savior tenderly holding children, ministering to the sick, and showing compassion to the undeserving. Christ’s words tell us of a heavenly Father who loves people, listens to the prayers of His children, and freely offers forgiveness.
Jesus also revealed that there are two spiritual fathers in this world: Jehovah and Satan. Only those who have been spiritually born into God’s family may call Him “Father.” This rebirth (John 3:3) takes place when a person accepts Jesus’ substitutionary sacrifice for his or her own sins. Those that reject Christ—the only way to God (14:6)—consequently choose the Devil as their spiritual father (8:42-45). They have believed the Father of Lies and rejected the one true God as revealed in the person of Jesus. Satan came to steal, kill, and destroy (10:10), but Jesus came that we might have new life and be reconciled to God the Father.
God is aware of every need we have, and He has promised to provide His best for us. He delights in giving good gifts to His children and doesn’t hold our mistakes against us. With Him, we find intimacy, security, and satisfaction. Child of God, how well do you know your Father?
