Devotional: The Everlasting Father
The concept of God as our Everlasting Father brings a profound sense of intimacy and comfort. Many of us live with impersonal connections that shape how we view God. We can begin to see Him as distant, like an abstract idea or a problem to solve. But Jesus’ words in John 14 challenge that notion. God is not a distant force or philosophy; He is a loving Father inviting us into a personal relationship.
Jesus, the “Everlasting Father,” shows us that God’s love is deeply personal. Knowing God is more than gaining information about Him—it’s about engaging with Him as a person. Relationships like this require effort, vulnerability, and the willingness to approach God on His terms.
Here are three key ideas to reflect on:
The Problem: Many of us live in a world that encourages shallow connections. This influences how we relate to God, reducing Him to a concept rather than someone to know.
The Solution: Jesus came to show us that God is personal. He invites us to come to the Father and know Him deeply.
The Challenge: Relationships are harder than religion. They require authenticity and a willingness to let go of control.
Religion often offers an easier path with its rituals and rules, but a relationship with God is different. It’s not about checking boxes or achieving something; it’s about being known and loved by the Creator of the universe. Jesus’ statement, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), reminds us that this relationship happens on God’s terms—through Him.
Take a moment today to consider: Are you settling for knowing about God, or are you actively seeking to know Him? The invitation is clear. God wants to walk with you, not as a distant deity but as your Everlasting Father.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion:
How does the title “Everlasting Father” shape your understanding of Jesus and His relationship with God?
In what ways have impersonal interactions influenced how you view or relate to God?
Consider the idea: “You can know about God without knowing Him, but you cannot know Him without knowing about Him.” How does this resonate with your own faith journey?
What steps can you take to move from knowing about God to truly knowing Him personally?
Why is a relationship with God often harder than following religious rules? How can you embrace the challenge?
Additional Scriptures for Study:
Ephesians 1:17 “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.”
Ephesians 3:17-19 “I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge…”
John 17:3 “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.”
Hebrews 1:3 “The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being…”
Sources for Additional Study:
"Knowing God" by J.I. Packer – A classic exploration of what it means to truly know God.
"The Prodigal God" by Timothy Keller – Insights into God’s personal love and grace.
Bible Project Video: Trinity – A short video that unpacks the biblical concept of God as a father, son, and spirit.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for revealing Yourself to us through Jesus, our Everlasting Father. Your love reminds us that we are known, cherished, and deeply loved. Help us to move beyond surface-level knowledge and truly know You. Open our hearts to engage with You personally, and guide us as we navigate the challenges of a genuine relationship with You. May Your love fill us and transform us, so we may reflect it to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
