God is Our Father and Defender | Encounter God #20

Do you see God as your Father and Defender?

Or do you resist thinking of God in this way as the example that has been set for you in regards to Fatherhood — even manhood — has not been positive?

From the time I put my faith in Jesus, I wanted nothing to do with the idea that God could be my Father or defender because it seemed so incongruent with my earthly experience growing up in an abusive home. But as time passed, I felt this pull to lean into this attribute of God, even as things got worse with my dad. I truly became a fatherless child, and it was in that loss that God showed me His love through other men who stepped into my dad’s shoes, especially in a grandfatherly role with my children. Looking at their example, I began to see another side of God.

I could finally believe the promise we find in the Psalms:

Father to the fatherless, defender of widows—
    this is God, whose dwelling is holy.

Psalm 68:5 NLT

Yes, God is the Father to the fatherless. The Greek word, “yathowm” means orphan or lonely (source). Yes, God is with us whether when we are physically, emotionally, or spiritually orphaned and alone. He is the defender and judge and advocate of widows. He sees the wounding. He sees the wanting. He is fully present in His holiness. That is the truth we can cling to, no matter our circumstances.

God, You are a Father to the fatherless and the defender of widows. You do not turn a blind eye to their pain and hurt. You do not abandon and forsake, even if the world does so. Please open our eyes to see the way You truly are and not accept a distorted view of Your character or promises.

In the Strong Name of Jesus, Amen

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