UNDERSTANDING THE FATHER’S HEART
For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them… (Luke 9:56).
In praying to effect changes, especially in your town, city or nation, a clear understanding of the Word and insight into the mind of God is important. For example, consider a scenario where a group of Christians in a city or nation are praying in agreement that they don’t want a particular government official. Meanwhile, there’re other Christians who work with that same leader who may be praying every day for the leader to succeed and remain in office.
While those declaring a change may be justified, God also considers the prayers of His children who are standing in faith for that leader. It reveals something about the nature of God—His fatherly nature. You may expect Him to act in a certain way and He doesn’t. It’s because He thinks differently. His actions are governed by His love, mercy, and purpose.
Consider the case of James and John in Luke 9:54-56. They were offended by those who did not plan adequately to receive the Lord Jesus and asked, “…Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?” (Luke 9:54). But Jesus rebuked them, saying, “…Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men’s lives, but to save them…” (Luke 9:55-56).
The Master demonstrated the Father’s heart of love and mercy throughout His ministry. He understood His purpose and remained committed to fulfilling it according to the will of the Father. God’s nature is consistent. He is merciful and loving. He operates as wisdom, always seeking to save and to bring His children into alignment with His divine purpose.
Understanding this helps us appreciate why God may not always act the way we expect Him to, even when we think our desires are justified. As you give yourself to the Word and the guidance of His Spirit, you will increasingly know and walk in His perfect will and plan in every situation and be able to pray effectively with direction and precision.
PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for your love, mercy and wisdom. I recognize your fatherly heart, and I yield myself to your will and purpose, and declare that your love and grace prevail in my life and in the lives of those around me as I walk in alignment with your Word and fulfil your purpose, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY:
John 3:16-17, 2 Peter 3:9, Ezekiel 18:23
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 17:16-34, Job 6-8
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 6:39-49, Deuteronomy 33
