“that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us”- John 17:21
Scripture reading: John 17:1-26
In the Old Testament, God revealed Himself to His special people as Yahweh. The name means, “I am who I am” referring to God being in Himself. He has no need of relationship with people. The name implies His holiness, greatness and purity. It sets Him apart from His people. He is regal. In contrast, His people see their sin, weakness and defilement. They humbly respond to God with reverent fear.
We now reach the climax of the Bible. After the gospel of Jesus, the relationship of God with His people changed. God tells His people to call Him, “Father.” They are His children. Adoption into God’s family is a supernatural gift from God to His people through Jesus. God has a covenant love with His people; and He chooses to reveal it in a family, with Him as Father and His people as His sons and daughters.
Everyone has an idea of how a father should be; and, regardless of their experience with their earthly father, they can receive God as their perfect Father. What does this relationship look like? We can see it in God’s relationship with Jesus, His Son. There are four parts. First, the Father has authority and His children desire to do His will. Second, the Father affectionately loves His children, and His children obey Him and remain in His love. Thirdly, the Father is always with His children; the children are never alone. Finally, the Father honours His children as He similarly glorified Jesus.
Suggestions for Prayer: Thank God for being the perfect Father of His people. Pray for good relationships and healing in your earthly family and amongst the children of God.
Katelyn Van Haren is a member of Redeemer United Reformed Church in Lacombe, Alberta. She received a liberal arts degree from Redeemer University in Ancaster, Ontario in honours accounting and is a CPA. Katelyn and her husband have five children. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com