Shofar Stellenbosch | Our FatherSample

Introduction The word “Father” in Greek is pater, from a root word meaning nourisher, upholder, protector and provider. This concept of God as our father was introduced by Jesus and is largely the subject of the New Testament revelation. We live in a broken society where many people come from homes ravaged by divorce, abuse and brokenness. The post-modern world has lost its basic family values and people are desperate for the love of God. Sadly, we see the foundation of society, which is the family unit, crumbling and falling apart. We truly live in a fatherless generation. Every human has a need to be accepted, affirmed and have a sense of belonging. Surrendering and trusting our Father is essential in knowing His heart and the love He has for us. God desires to embrace us and draw us into His family as His children. This devotional is based on the book “Our Father” by Sias le Roux. It’s aimed at helping us understand and connect with our Father as our Dad and the head of our family. It describes the heart, nature, character and work of our Father as well as growing up as a child in His House and becoming a father to others. Join us as we embark on this road of discovering the heart of our Father. Devotional: The Unconditional Love of Our Father It is important to know that God does not merely do things that make us feel loved – He is love! He defines what love is in a way the world cannot. Beyond just a feeling and an emotion. His love always includes unconditional giving (John 3:16, John 15:13). Love manifests when you are in a relationship because you want to give something to that person. Lust is all about getting what you can. His love is also jealous (Exodus 34:13-14). God loves us before we are “perfect” or before we can meet His expectation and fulfil His will.  We cannot earn His love. God will never stop loving us, even if we reject Him. He loved us before we did anything for Him and His love is therefore not based on anything we do, but on who He is. God truly loves you and me. Reflective questions: 1. What do you understand under the term “unconditional”? The word used in the Greek for unconditional love is agape. The Longman dictionary defines unconditional as “not limited by or depending on any conditions”. 2. How can we know that our Father loves us? (1 John 3:1, John 15:13) 3. Think back on people or circumstances where were you motivated by fear to do certain things? Describe what happened. 4. In what areas are you motivated by fear in your relationship with God? 5. His love always includes unconditional giving. What is the difference between love and lust? 6. Why can we love God? (1 John 4:19) 7. Do we need to be perfect to earn God’s love? (Romans 5:8) 8. List some characteristic traits of love that stand out for you in 1 Corinthians 13:4 – 9, 13 9. Do you feel loved by the people around you and by God?