A Heavenly Affirmation

A Heavenly Affirmation

by Max Lucado

Each of us has a fantasy that our family will be like the Waltons, an expectation that our dearest friends will be our next of kin. Jesus didn't have that expectation. Look how He defined His family: "My true brother and sister and mother are those who do what God wants." (Mark 3:35)

When Jesus’ brothers didn’t share His convictions, He didn’t try to force them. He recognized that His spiritual family could provide what His physical family didn’t. If Jesus Himself couldn’t force His family to share His convictions, what makes you think you can force yours?

We can’t control the way our family responds to us. When it comes to the behavior of others toward us, our hands are tied. We have to move beyond the naive expectation that if we do good, people will treat us right. The fact is they may and they may not—we cannot control how people respond to us.

I can’t assure you that your family will ever give you the blessing you seek, but I know God will. Let God give you what your family doesn’t. If your earthly father doesn’t affirm you, then let your heavenly Father take his place.

God has proven Himself as a faithful father. Now it falls to us to be trusting children. Let God give you what your family doesn’t. Let Him fill the void others have left. Rely upon Him for your affirmation and encouragement. Look at Paul’s words: “You are God’s child, and God will give you the blessing He promised, because you are His child” (Gal. 4:7, emphasis added).

[And] don’t lose heart. God still changes families.

OUR FATHER

(by me)

Not everyone has had the privilage of having a good dad in their lives. I didn't. My kids didn't. But, whether you have a good dad or not, God understands everyone's need for a good father. He can fill that need if you follow Him. Open your heart to your Father in heaven. Allow Him to be your Father!

God is your Father.
He is your refuge.

..."a father of the fatherless...is God in His holy habitation.
God makes a home for the lonely."
Psalm 28:4-6