Dave spoke this morning on the fatherhood of God (see 1 Cor 4:15, 1 John 1:1-3). Human fathers often influence our thinking and how we live enormously. Jesus often referred to God as His father and encouraged us to pray to ‘our Father’. A family relationship with God is essential to the Christian life, and there are five characteristics of God as our Father which are vitally important to life.
1. God is our Creator. He made us, humans being the one thing that was made in His image. Just as a human father is necessary for conception to occur, so new life comes when God breathes on us by His Spirit and brings us to life. He made us, and this gives us both significance and worth.
2. God is our Provider, providing for all our needs (see Matt 6:31-34). He gives us the rain and sunshine needed for crops to grow; He provides us with food and clothing. Just as earthly fathers seek to provide for their families, so God provides all we need. (Phil 4:19)
3. God is our Protector. (Ps 50:15) He keeps us from harm and sends angels to guard our way. He will never leave us or forsake us. Just as earthly fathers seek to protect and help their families, so God protects and guards us.
4. God gives us both peace and joy. He leads us besides still wtaers and gives us abundant life. Just as an earthly father seeks to comfort and help his children, so God promises us peace that passes all understanding.
5. God gives us eternal life. Eph 2:5 reminds us that we have been made alive in Christ. Belief in Jesus gives us access to eternal life (John 6:47) and we can live fulfillled lives on earth with the guarantee of heaven in the future.