Who’s Your Daddy?

For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by Him we cry, “Abba, Father.”

Romans 8:15

On the plane returning from Israel, I heard a tiny voice, “Abba! Abba!” A little girl in front of me called out to her father. She was using the Hebrew word for “daddy.”

Suddenly, the stories of Jesus came alive! Throughout His ministry on earth, He often referred to God as Father. Father was a much more intimate term than the prophets and patriarchs used. God revealed Himself by several names throughout the old testament but not as Father.

Calling God “Father” was radical in Jesus’ time. In fact, many of the religious leaders were offended. Jesus wasn’t deterred. He continued to show us His close, personal relationship with God the Father.

As He wrestled with His impending death, He cried out from the depths of his heart, “Abba!” He used a term even more intimate than “father.” He was calling out to His Daddy.

We can also know God as Daddy. In Romans 8:15, we find that we can cry out, “Abba, Father.”

I used to think God the Father was distant, critical of me, and not easily approachable. 

The little girl on the plane wasn’t the least bit afraid of her abba. He didn’t scold her for the things she had done wrong. She was confident that when she called him, he would answer. He turned from what he was doing and focused lovingly on her. She eventually cuddled up next to him and contently rested. No words had to be exchanged but love, acceptance and security were present in abundance.

Hear the words of your Abba. I have loved you with an everlasting love (Jeremiah 31:3). Call to Me and I will answer you (Jeremiah 33:3). I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you (Isaiah 46:4).

Daddy! Abba! Show me how to know you as you know me.
 

Terri