As Jesus taught the love of the Father, his Gospel invites us into a relationship with God as a good father. The best. When we come to him in repentance, he thinks of us as his beloved child, son, or daughter. And a good father seeks to give good things to his children. He doesn’t hold back. He gives generously and with love. He may not give us what we think we need. The Father knows the best gifts to give us, and he delights in providing for us. 

Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount, “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!” For those of us with kids, even nonbelievers, we understand wanting to give our kids the best we have. This human desire, even flawed at times, reflects the heart of God, only infinitely more pure. His gifts are rooted in what is of the eternal best for us. 

This includes both provision now and eternally, for every facet of our lives. “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like the shifting shadows.” He gives inner peace, contentment, and joy, an unshakable treasure in the trials of life. And he provides for every physical, emotional, and spiritual need for those who seek the Kingdom through Jesus. 

We don’t have to beg him for stuff. Our Father is rich in mercy, grace, and love. He enjoys giving us the very best. 

Photo Credit: ©Unsplash/Christopher Sardegna