The Heavenly Father, An Example for The Earthly Father

Ephesians 4:6 tells us of “one God and Father of all, Who is over all, and through all, and in you all.” By right of creation all men stand under the Fatherhood of God (Acts 17:24-29); but by right of conversion, only those who are Christians can call God, “Our Father” (1 John 3:1).

As our heavenly Father, God . . . .

1. Provides for His children. The blessings of providence are ever with us (Matthew 6:33; Romans 8:28). Spiritual provision (forgiveness of sins) has also been made (Ephesians 1:10).

2. Punishes or Disciplines His Household. Earthly fathers have the right to administer discipline (Hebrews 12:2-12) and restrain children from wayward paths. The Heavenly Father does, too!

3. Hates sin. Romans 1:18 says: “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men…..”

4. Loves Sinners. Romans 5:8 teaches, “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

5. Invites All to Come to Him. Revelation 22:17 says, “Whoever is thirsty, let him come; and whoever wishes, let him take the free gift of the water of life.” Those who come to God through Christ by obeying the gospel are God’s family (Romans 5:1; 6:1-4, 16-18).

6. And How He Loves His Children! “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And this is what we are!” (1 John 3:1). How we need to lead others to the “water of life”, so that they, too, can be His beloved children and be in this wonderful relationship that helps the earthly father to demonstrate the Heavenly Father’s love to the family, and also helps us bear our burdens and leads us to a glorious eternity with the Father in heaven.