In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 6, Jesus can be found ministering and teaching His disciples various principles regarding giving, fasting, the Father's care for His children, and many other things. One of the most notable portions of this scripture is His instruction to His disciples on prayer. It is prayer that opens the line of communication to the ears of the heavenly Father, a time of sweet communion in which we cast our cares on Him (1 Peter 5:7) and also open ourselves to receive whatever it is that we are seeking from God's Holy Spirit.
In verse 9 of chapter 6, Jesus gives His disciples specific instructions on prayer saying, "Pray, then, in this way: 'Our Father who is in heaven....'" In this post, I am compelled to discuss just the first 2 words: "Our Father." The possessive pronoun here would indicate a personal relationship to the Father to whom we are praying. This is a natural connection for Jesus as He is speaking of His Father in heaven - the first person of the trinity - who becomes our father through our belief in Jesus Christ (Yeshua) as Messiah. (John 3:16) But who then does the Father become to us? What can we know about the one to whom we pray?
"Father" - pater - (Greek transliteration) - n. masculine
Because of the extensive nature of God, particularly the Father, I will not discuss each meaning, but will share the list with you so that you can meditate on them yourself. My hope is that you will be receptive to the voice of the Holy Spirit as you consider each meaning, listening carefully for the heavenly Father to reveal Himself to you personally.
WHO IS THE FATHER?
Nourisher - Protector - Upholder - Natural Father - Forefather - Founder of a race or tribe - Originator - The Author of a Family or society animated by the same spirit as himself - One who has infused his own spirit into others - He who actuates and governs the mind - GOD of all rational and intelligent beings, whether angels or men, because He is their creator, preserver, guardian, and protector
May you know the Father in greater ways after today than you ever have. Amen.
**Have questions or comments? E-mail me at gejohnsonmedia@gmail.com or leave them in the comment section below. Discussion is welcome!**
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