Ephesians 3:14, Romans 8:15, Galatians 4:4-7

Jamie Anderson

At this stage of life I am in an amazing place. I have 2 Dads and I use that word; Dad, intentionally. There was a time when I had No Dad or Dads and that had a profound impact on my life.

I spent the first 8 years of my life asking "why don't I have a dad - all my friends do? Doesn't he love me too? Why did he leave? Is there something wrong with me? I felt rejected, a failure, I felt betrayed and inevitably these questions turned into hurts and angers that led to bitterness in my heart. It ultimately affected my outlook on life and mostly; God. Why would I want to believe in the concept or Father God or Abba and having a relationship with Him when my natural understanding of this role was, well...twisted.

Well my Mom remarried when I was a little over 8 to the man I now know and call my Dad and as a result of his input into my life I have learned what it really means to have a Dad and be one (I have 2 kids of my own aged 6 and 2). My Dad's role model has caused my heart to turn toward the Father and see Him for who He really is and in return who He really wants to be to me AND to want Him as my friend, closer than a brother - one who I rely on; for everything.

It has, however required some effort and decisions on my part. A real life decision to adopt this new man as my father and as my friend; which in turn has set a place where I can look to Father God and CHOOSE to adopt Him as my Father and Friend.

Let's look at what the scriptures say about how we are to see our relationship with God:

1. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(Ephesians 3:14)

2. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received
the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (Romans 8:15)

The Message Bible offers this rendering of Romans 8:14-16 for us:

'God's Spirit beckons. There are things to do and places to go! This resurrection life you
received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It's adventurously expectant, greeting
God with a childlike "What's next, Papa?" God's Spirit touches our spirits and confirms
who we really are. We know who he is, and we know who we are: Father and children.'

See that word Abba - it literally means "pappa" or "daddy" and is supposed to be affectionate and close.

Consider this: If your earthly father was the leader of the nation, president of the bank, governor of the company, how would you address him upon meeting him?

1. Your Highness, may I have an audience with you please?
2. Mr President, may I please make an appointment to speak with you?
3. Excuse me sir, but may I have a moment of your time please?

As a son or daughter, would any of those approaches be comfortable for you?

NO WAY! It would be weird and way wrong. Ask yourself an honest question. Most of the time, how do you think about our Creator?