A Better Father

Norbert Wiener was a child prodigy in the field of mathematics. He attended graduate school at Harvard University and played an important role in furthering the field of cybernetics. However, his family life was less than ideal. His father was severe and mostly absent. As Norbert grew older, his father took over his education and pushed him to the point of emotional breakdown. However, Wiener recovered from his traumatic interactions with his father and went on to live a successful life.

God has given all earthly fathers freedom. They can succumb to Satan’s temptations and choose to inflict incredible pain on their children. This can happen through direct abuse, unreasonable demands, or complete neglect. However, God will not only hold them responsible, He is also working to adopt every person into His superior care. In multiple ways, God seeks to woo us back to Himself. “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him” (John 6:44, emphasis added).

The most direct way is that we can begin interacting with God as we would with an earthly father. This could mean listening to His voice in Scripture and nature, watching for His providential movements, or saying “Our Father in heaven” (Matthew 6:9). However, it is likely that God is also working to connect us with other members of His family who can help us in the healing process. The Bible states that “the sweetness of a man’s friend gives delight by hearty counsel” (Proverbs 27:9).

The Bible promises that God will be a Father to those who have no father. Hosea reminds us, “In You the fatherless finds mercy” (14:3). Even Jesus said, “I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:18). When your earthly father fails you, know that you have a heavenly Father who will never fail you.

Apply It:

Do you know someone who needs the guidance of a father or mother in their life? Pray for them and encourage them.

Dig Deeper:

John 19:25–27; John 16:27; James 1:17