Abba Father
There are a variety of names for God in the Bible that tell us of his nature, qualities and characteristics. All of his names are rich with meaning as well as helpful for us to better understand and know him, to get closer with him. One of my favourites is ABBA Father.
Abba Father, or Daddy as it’s translated by some, is probably the most cherished name of God for me. I have a wonderful earthly daddy so it’s easy for me to appreciate and understand the intimacy in this name.
My own dad has always been in my life. He raised me, fed me, protected me, disciplined me, corrected me, loved me unconditionally. My dad has been my confidant, my advisor, my biggest fan, my best encourager, my friend. My dad always wanted me to be successful, and happy. To this day my dad still encourages me in all these things and inspires me to enjoy every aspect of this life.
Because of my earthly daddy’s love, encouragement, acceptance, support and lack of judgement, it’s easier for me to embrace the attributes of Abba Father.
Abba Father has all the qualities of my earthy dad and more! I love what Matthew 7:11 says;
So if you, despite being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask Him!
How much more will my heavenly Dad give me than my earthly dad! Wow, chew on that for a minute. No matter how good or bad your earthly dad is or was, your heavenly Dad is more, he is better, he has everything you could ever want, need or desire. He offers you the best of gifts.
Salvation first comes to mind for me. Sacrificing his only Son for your sin -“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
Unconditional Love – “See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” 1 John 3:1 (who doesn’t want love LAVISHED on them!!?)
Kindness – “So that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.
Mercy – “But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” Ephesians 2:4-5
Grace – “The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion.” Psa 116:5
Protection– “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust!” Psa 91:1-2
Guidance - “in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”Proverbs 3:6 NIV
Healing – “…for I am the LORD, who heals you." Exodus 15:26
He Makes All Things New– “He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true." Revelation 21:5
He has a heart for you and each of his names hold so much meaning and promise.
Open yourself up to this aspect of God, Abba Father, Daddy, Pappa, Pops, regardless of what you call your earthly dad or who he was or is, or how he behaved or misbehaved. Believe your heavenly Daddy is always for you. He will not leave or forsake you. Through your deepest trials and darkest days, know that Abba Father is with you comforting you, supporting you and fighting for you. Put your trust in Him. Believe that He has always been there for you and with you and always will be.