Jun 24 Devotion: Knowing God As Our Father

9).  After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.  10). Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.  11).  Give us this day our daily bread.  12).  And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.  13).  And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever.  Amen.  14).  For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:  15).  But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

                                   MATTHEW 6:9-15

The Lord’s Prayer shows us something unique about God. In Jesus’ day, calling God “Father” (SEE MATTHEW 6:9) was a radical and marvelous concept: The Israelites understood a national link between people and deity, but Jesus’ words made that connection a personal one.

How amazing that the Creator wants a relationship with us. By trusting Jesus as Savior, we’re welcomed into God’s family, though we can never be completely holy or perfect like Him. The bond is based on His great love and acceptance, not our abilities.

In the "Lord’s Prayer," we are taught to develop transparency and intimacy in our relationship with God—which is what a father/child connection should be. The pattern Jesus demonstrated directs us to share needs, confess sin, and admit weakness. Like the good Father He is, God responds to our petitions with love and wisdom (SEE MATTHEW 7:7 & 21:22). He also makes His presence known during our quiet times, offering comfort and the assurance that He is always near.

Jesus’ prayer recognizes the Father’s holiness and sovereignty as well as His desire to be personally involved in our life. If you hunger to know God as a Father, follow the pattern of the Lord’s Prayer. As you open yourself to Him, He will draw close to you.  

-IBC