Whoever fears the Lord has a secure fortress, and for their children it will be a refuge. Proverbs 14:26

            As Father’s Day draws closer, I often look for interesting quotes, humorous stories and antidotes as well as devotionals.  I came across the following encouragement written by Max Lucado which is excerpted from his book: Dad Time.  I’d like to share it with you.

            God Himself is a father. What parental emotion has He not felt? Are you separated from your child? So was God. Is someone mistreating your child? They mocked and bullied His. Is someone taking advantage of your child? The Son of God was set up by false testimony and betrayed by a greedy follower. Are you forced to watch while your child suffers? God watched His Son on the cross.

            In addition, we are God’s children, suffering in a world of sin that wreaks havoc on our bodies, twists our minds, and severs our relationships. Does God shrug His shoulders and say, “Oh well, that’s life”? Of course not. Why would He go to all the trouble of introducing Himself to the world with the title of Father? Curator, Manager, and Overseer are colder titles of indifference.

            God’s role is not a job. It’s a relationship. So, God chose a relationship title you can identify with. Now you understand His heart when His children are in pain.

            So whatever emotions you feel about your child, God feels about your child. Maybe more. I know that’s hard to believe, but God has known your child longer than you have. He hurt for your child before he was born. You’re not alone. Your Father weeps right by your side.

God is your child’s Father too. Just as you’ll do everything to help your child during his pain, so will God.