All who pray must recognize that there is more to learn. The disciples of Jesus asked him to teach them to pray (see Luke 11:1). In response, he gave the Lord’s Prayer. The first two words say so much about God and how we ought to address him.   Jesus had many images of God from which to choose, such as Judge, King, Shepherd, Creator, etc., but he chose “Father.” 

“Our Father” is the best address for us to use in prayer.

Other addresses for God are suitable as well, but “Father” is the one Jesus taught.  It makes sense for Jesus to call God “Father” because he is the Eternal Son of God.  What right do we as creatures have to presume this familial address? 

1. To address God as Father reminds Christians that we are adopted as sons and daughters through Christ. John 1:12 says he gave the “right” to become children of God to those who receive Jesus and believe in his name.
2. Calling God Father reminds us that he loves and cares for us. In Matthew 7:11, he teaches that even evil parents give good things to their kids. How much more will our good God give good things to those who ask! This includes loving discipline (see Heb. 12:7-10).
3. The pronoun “our” in front of “Father” means that we have spiritual siblings. We always pray as part of a community. God is pleased when we look out for one another and dwell in harmony.
4. “Father” has an intimacy to it that is expressed even more so as “Abba,” the Hebrew word for “daddy.” Galatians 4 & Romans 8 describe the Holy Spirit’s work in ministering to our hearts that God our Abba Father loves us intimately.

Taking It Home: Spend time reflecting on God as your Father and thank him for this relationship.