Understanding God as Father can evoke very different reactions, depending on our experiences with earthly fathers. While Scripture clearly reveals God as our Father (and at times with maternal qualities), Jesus emphasized this relationship, teaching us to pray to “Our Father”. Regardless of personal experience, we are invited to discover fresh insight into God’s fatherly nature.
Key Points & Scriptures
1. He Provides for Us
- God sets a banqueting table for us, even in the presence of enemies like fear, failure, and shame. (Psalm 23:5)
- His ultimate provision is Jesus—through His life, death, and resurrection, we are saved and reconciled.
- God’s provision is both spiritual (salvation, identity, eternal life) and physical (daily needs).
- We’re called to prioritize the Kingdom, trusting that provision will follow (Matthew 6:25–34).
2. He Protects Us
- Like a good father, God fights the battles we cannot win.
- Jesus’ victory over sin and death is our ultimate protection (Colossians 2:13–15).
- We can trust God completely because He is able to guard what we entrust to Him (2 Timothy 1:12).
- Jesus also intercedes for us continually (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25).
- God is not only our champion—He also champions us, encouraging and preparing us for the future.
3. He Prepares Us
- God sets his children up for success
- God equips us for success by giving us the Holy Spirit—our helper, comforter, and teacher (John 14:16–17).
- The Spirit works in us (for transformation) and through us (for the benefit of others).
- Being filled with the Spirit is not a one-time event, but a continual experience (Ephesians 5:18).
- Through the Spirit, we are adopted as sons and daughters, not orphans (Romans 8:14–16).
- Each of us has a “sphere of influence” assigned by God, and with it comes grace and gifting to fulfill our calling (2 Corinthians 10:13, 1 Corinthians 3:10).
Conclusion
The Father has invited us to sit at His table—secure in His provision, protection, and preparation. When we receive this revelation, the lies of the enemy and past wounds lose their grip. Everything changes when we allow God to truly father us.
Life application questions
- How has your earthly experience of fatherhood (positive or negative) influenced your view of God as Father—and how might God want to reshape that view?
- What “enemies” (fear, shame, doubt, etc.) have been keeping you from fully accepting your place at God’s banqueting table?
- In what ways are you currently seeing the Holy Spirit work in you and through you? Are there areas where you need to open yourself more to His presence and power?
- What is your “sphere of influence,” and how can you better steward the grace and gifting God has given you in that space?
Paul’s Bible Notes 