Thinking of Our Heavenly Father This Father’s Day
When I think of a “father,” the first words that come to mind are strength, protector, provider and safe place. This is because I was blessed with a loving earthly father who provided support and taught me many life lessons that served me well into adulthood. I credit much of who I am today to my dad.
Now that I have children of my own, being a father is one of the greatest joys in my life, as well. I love my son and daughter more than words can express. Many of you know that my journey in fatherhood has had its storms as I’ve watched my daughter become permanently mentally and physically disabled due to a mistake made during a simple procedure when she was an infant. With both my children, there have been highs and lows, moments of despair and moments of triumph.
While I want to protect and provide the best life I can for my children, I’ve realized through the years that the only One who will never let my family down is God. Our Heavenly Father is the ultimate provider. He knows each of our needs even before we do, and pays attention to the smallest of details. One of the toughest yet most liberating lessons I’ve learned in my parenting journey has been that I must turn control of my and my children’s lives over to Him.
Luke 12 paints a beautiful picture that reaffirms the truth that God will meet our needs and we do not need to worry.
Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn, yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?
“Consider how the wildflowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith! And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.
The Scripture in Luke reminds us that God cares for the smallest of things like the wildflowers and ravens. Understanding this brought freedom and peace to me. I am called to care for my children to the best of my ability, but fathers are human -- including me. I know I have made my share of mistakes and disappointed my children at times, but our Heavenly Father provides for all of us in a way I never could.
Perhaps you are struggling with the pressure to be the perfect dad, or maybe you carry wounds from an earthly father who was far, far from the father God intended for him to be. Take comfort that God is ready to meet you exactly where you are and provide the peace you need. He didn’t design you to do this alone! He wants a personal relationship with you. All you have to do is realize that you are a sinner and can’t get right with God on your own, accept His free gift of eternal life and forgiveness of your sins, and ask Him to send the Holy Spirit to come live in you and help you become the person He designed you to be. He will be with you!
God is steadfast, will never fail us, disappoint us or let us down if we decide to place our lives in His hands -- the only perfect Father. Thank Him for all He has done for you as your Heavenly Father!