Lately, I have been struck by the meaning of the names of God. His names are wonderful subjects to study. My favorite has long been "El Shaddai," the all-sufficient one, or the God who is more than enough.
During a recent sermon, a different name really resonated with me. (Don't you just love the thoughts that come to you during church?) The title "Everlasting Father" stood out to me. I've heard this scripture numerous times:
"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6
For some reason, "Everlasting Father" never registered with me. I'd focused on all the other names in that scripture but somehow I never saw that particular name.
I've always had a special relationship with my earthly father. In spite of the challenges we faced together regarding his alcoholism, he was probably my closest friend. Then his destiny was fulfilled and his time on earth was over.
I don't care how old you are, losing a parent is a hard thing. Losing your parents makes you feel like an orphan even if you are mature adult. You're alone. No one to call for advice or help in time of need.
But, wait! If you are a child of God, the reality is that you will always have a Father to call on. His resources to help are so much greater than any earthly father's could ever be!
I love how the New Century Version of the bible translates Everlasting Father - the "Father who lives forever!" As much as my daddy would have loved to stay and share life with me and help whenever he could, my Abba Father will always be there to do those things. I can count on it!
You can, too!
Thanks for joining me as I share Words to Stand On. If you'd like to share a word that is special to you, please feel free to leave a comment. I promise to respond.
Wow, these are powerful words as I pray for 4 children who lost a father at 51 on Saturday. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI love that, although my earthly father has left much to be desired, my heavenly Father is perfect - and Everlasting.
ReplyDeleteThanks for these Words to stand on today, Jerri.
I need to remember them every day!
I think I learned to rely on my Everlasting Father early in life, because neither of my parents were of much support to me! BUT I had never really paid attention to THAT title in that verse either. Mainly because MY favorite is Wonderful Counselor. And maybe THAT is because in High School I had an awesome counselor who really did "counsel" me and gave very good advice and was actually the first adult who EVER seemed to give a darn about what might actually become of me! But regardless of what He's called... it is comforting to know that He is THERE for us ... forever, and ever. Amen!
ReplyDeleteVery powerful Jerri! Love how we do have an Everlasting Father to go to!
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