Lesson 18: A Humanitarian by Giving Us a Wonderful Life Here and Now
Study Guide Pages 139-147
The type of father a child has makes a huge difference, doesn’t it? Some children don’t even know who their fathers are. They miss out on his love. This fact can shape their entire lives. At the other end of the spectrum are the fortunate children who have excellent fathers who spend time with them, serve as their role models, and provide for them physically, morally, and spiritually. Their loving and active parenting gives them security in the present and prepares them for the future.
The same holds true for people who know God as their loving Father. But contrary to common opinion, not everyone is God’s child. Scripture says:
As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.
John 1:12
If every person were God’s child by nature, God wouldn’t have to give them the power or authority to become his children. Faith in Jesus, believing that Jesus did everything necessary for us to live eternally with Heavenly Father – this is what qualifies a person to be God’s child.
And O does Heavenly Father long to shower his believing children with love! Scripture promises that God will ensure that everything in their lives will ultimately be for their good. Even the apparent bad things. Heavenly Father will make sure good will come even from them. This is because it doesn’t depend on our strength; it’s based entirely on him. And we don’t have to wait until after this life to start receiving good from God. We can already experience his goodness right now.
Scripture says:
[His compassions] are new every morning.
Lamentations 3:23
It’s thrilling to see God continue to be such an active part of our lives. What a blessing it is to have such a loving Heavenly Father!
Key Bible Verses
Not everyone is a child of God. Children of God are those who trust in Jesus as the one who makes them right with God and able to live with him eternally.
As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.
John 1:12
Not only has God provided for our eternal well-being, but he also cares for us daily with his mercy and compassion.
This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:23
Questions to Consider
- When you hear the word “father” what are the first thoughts that come to your mind?
- When you hear the term “Heavenly Father” what are the first thoughts that come to your mind?
- What “qualifies” someone to be God’s child?
- List some of the blessings that children of God receive in the here and now. Think back to some of the blessings mentioned in previous videos and studies.
- Which of his attributes make God the best Father ever?
Would you like answers to these questions?
Complete our brief registration form to receive access to the course study guide with answers to these questions, a free copy of the book, God—The Ultimate Humanitarian, and the ability to track your progress through the course.