Abba, Father

For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship.  And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.”  (Romans 8:15 NIV 1984)

I sat me down and had a good, long cry. I had informed my husband as he left for work that day my plan was to cry my eyes out. He didn’t comprehend this in the slightest and looked quite relieved that I didn’t seem to think him necessary to the process. After he left, I pulled our overstuffed chair up to the fire, put on sweet worship music, grabbed a box of Kleenex, and simply sobbed. It was just what I needed.

It was a time when trouble seemed all around me in the lives of dear ones—cancer, wayward children, broken marriages—and, oh, how I hurt when those close to me are hurting. The sadness builds up in me until I know it needs to come out in tears. So I sit and I cry … to the One who listens and understands best. My Abba.

What a wonder that the God who created the world with His voice, the God who is Holy and who lives in unapproachable light, is also called Abba. The term Abba is one of endearment for a daddy, like saying Papa. Closeness, intimacy, and deepest love are the meanings wrapped up in the name Abba.

Paul assures me in the verse above, that I did not receive a spirit that makes me a slave again to fear. I don’t have to let fear overwhelm me. Instead, the Holy Spirit dwells in me, and, when I am grieved or wounded or just plain sad, I’m free to run to the One who calms my fears and steadies me.

Some earthly fathers are available and affectionate, but being human, sinful, and limited in time and energy, no father is always available like our Abba. To Him, we can come at any time, sure of a warm welcome, a heart of love, and a compassion that is greater than any we have ever known.

My time with the Lord that morning left me feeling relieved … refreshed … ironically, even cheered. Crying out my hurts and disappointments to God brings perspective and comfort.

Are you feeling burdened today by the cares of this world? The trials you are facing? The pain of those dear to you? Remember you have a God who calls to you, Come to Me. You have a God who loves you and longs for an intimate relationship with you. You have an Abba.

Dear Father, thank You for the great privilege of allowing us to call You Abba. Thank You for Your gift of closeness to us in our times of greatest need—and in our times of joy. Oh, Abba, keep this child of Yours close to You always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

You are loved,
Sharon

Sweet Selah Ministries

Vision To encourage a movement away from the belief that “busy is better”
and toward the truth that stillness and knowing God matter most—
and will be reflected in more effective work and service

Mission 
To offer resources and retreats that help women pause (Selah)
and love God more deeply as they know Him more intimately (Sweet)

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