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Day Two
Daddy Father
Scripture: Mark 14:36; Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:6
If God is the primary caregiver of our spirits, souls, and bodies, wouldn’t it stand to reason that we may feel anxious when even the slightest distress enters our day and we don’t go to God as our primary comforter? As our parent? This genuine relationship with God means that we trust Him with everything, especially the things we are ashamed of. Jesus died for full forgiveness of our sins so that we may go boldly to the throne of grace. We deliberately go to him to comfort us in times of need. He becomes our best friend, our guide, our coach, our nurturer, and our healer. Like a child who feels distress, we bury our face in His chest and turn away from false or temporary comforts.
Many people find throwing themselves at God in this very vulnerable way extremely risky. They don’t want to call on God for comfort because they see doing so as “being religious,” and they have been judged, condemned, or controlled by religious people proclaiming to be the godly elite. Others throw everything they have into religious behaviors in search of satisfaction that may come from “doing the right things for God.” Both of these extremes are nowhere near the true comfort the Bible promises us through a real-life relationship with God.
Religiosity is not comfort. Attending church doesn’t mean we have a genuine relationship with God. The Spirit of the living God is comfort. He is a person and our Creator, and He is alive and present with you right now. If you would dare to offer your affection, your worship to God, you would find your face buried in His shoulder as you turn away from all the things that offer counterfeit comfort.
In three scripture verses in the New Testament, God is referred to as “Abba” or “Daddy Father” (Mark 14:36; Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:6). How do children respond when they cannot run to a parent for comfort in times of pain or fear? How does this parallel your thoughts or emotions when you experience pain or fear? What would it look like to run to your Heavenly Daddy in those times?
Scripture
About this Plan
When you hear the word "rest", do you think of vacationing on a beach, curling up with a good book, or maybe napping? Those are all forms of rest, but this week we’re going to look at an entirely different dimension of rest—one that is available to you today, whatever your circumstances. If you are feeling fearful or overly busy, come find a place of rest right where you are.
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