God as Father

Key passages

Psalm 103:13 – "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him."

Matthew 6:9 – "This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.'"

Luke 15:20 – "So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him."

Reflection

God is not a distant ruler but a Father who has compassion, who invites us to call Him Father, and who runs to welcome us when we return to Him.

Questions for reflection

• How has your experience of earthly fathers shaped the way you see God as Father?
• What would it mean for you to pray to "Our Father" more personally this week?
• In what area do you need to experience God's compassion as a Father?

Action plan

• Pray the Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) slowly each day, focusing on "Our Father."
• Read Luke 15:11-32 (the prodigal son) on Bible.com and put yourself in the story.
• Tell one person how knowing God as Father has made a difference in your life.