Wednesday, May 13, 2026

Scripture

“Father of orphans and protector of widows is God in his holy habitation.” Psalm 68:5

Reflections

Christians make use of the word “Father” when referring to God.

This can be a very troubling thing for those who have not had a good experience with their earthly father.  They may have been distanced or detached from their father.  Their father may not have been very loving or affectionate.  Their father may have even been abusive.

One of the more extreme examples of this would be a father who abandons his children.  That can be tremendously emotionally devastating for a child.

The image of God we encounter in Psalm 68 is one of a “father of orphans”.  This is the polar opposite of what some have experienced as “father”.  We are not worthless or abandoned.  Our heavenly Father cares enough for us as individuals to claim us and embrace us.  He showers us with his love.  When we make bad choices in life, his heart breaks.  He loves us through it all.

When we speak of God as “Father”, it is not about male domination and abuse.  It is all about our perfectly loving heavenly Father.  For those who have not had a good experience with their earthly father, God is the perfect Father they never had.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you that I can claim you as my heavenly Father.  Thank you for your unconditional love, poured out to me as any good father would love a child.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35