Pastor's Ponderings, August 29, 2016

Our Father Loves His Children

A CNN July 2016 article reported that a young Yelp executive died after accidentally falling into the Grand Canyon.  I know this accident was exceedingly painful for her parents. This mishap was awful on so many levels not least of which is that I have three grown daughters and can sympathize. As parents, we invest our time, resources, and hearts in our offspring and want the very best for them.  It would be horrific for us to know that our progeny will not have the best opportunities, a long and productive life and to be happy.

Just like earthly fathers, Our Father in heaven wants the best for us.  He does not want us to get hurt, to be in pain, or to suffer loss.  In fact, He says that He wants us most of all to accomplish goals and to be healthy (3 John 1:2).  He wants to take care of His children (Matthew 7:9-11 and to give them whatever they need (Philippians 4:19).  In addition, He goes further than earthly fathers in that He does not want any of His children to perish in hell but wants all of them to be with Him eternally (2 Peter 3:9).

All over the world, parents are in agony seeing their children suffering from malnutrition, war, poverty, violence and hatred. Although we do not know why there is so much suffering and seemingly unnecessary loss, we should remember that he loved

His earthly children so much that He gave His only Son to save this world.  Let us remember to focus on His love for us and love and pray for all of God’s children of any age.

3 John 1:2
New International Version (NIV)

2 Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.

Matthew 7:9-11
Amplified Bible (AMP)

9 Or what man is there among you who, if his son asks for bread, will [instead] give him a stone?
10 Or if he asks for a fish, will [instead] give him a snake?
11 If you then, evil (sinful by nature) as you are, know how to give good and advantageous gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven [perfect as He is] give what is good and advantageous to those who keep on asking Him.

Philippians 4:19
New International Version (NIV)

19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

2 Peter 3:9
New International Version (NIV)

9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.