Like a Father

The recent observance of Father’s Day was, for me, a special time to remember and reflect on the significant, positive impact my father had on my life.  He was strong and gentle at the same time.  A man of principles and high expectations, yet his humility allowed him to be patient with those that didn’t see things his way.  I appreciated his self-confident nature and never questioned his unconditional love.

I realize the good memories of my father-child experience are not shared by all.  Who knows, in today’s culture, my experiences may even be atypical.  Sadly, some were mistreated by their fathers and some don’t even know the identity of their fathers.  Despite the harsh reality for some families, the positive role model is what was intended in a father, and it is definitely more preferred.

God is likened to a father in the Bible.  Depending on your perspective, this comparison can be an inspiration or an obstacle.  Before you negatively prejudge God’s character, listen to these “fatherly” attributes:

The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.  He will not always accuse, nor will he harbor his anger forever; he does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities.  For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.  As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we were formed, he remembers that we are dust.

Psalm 103:8-14

God is a father of love and compassion.  He is sympathetic to our needs.  He is gentle when we make mistakes and patient with our slowness.  He is willing and able to forgive our sins.  God is tender-hearted, wanting us to share in his blessings.  Therefore, he is merciful and kind, even when undeserved.  It is my prayer you will know the Lord God as a father of compassion.

Carl Smith
Stephenville, Texas