READ: PSALM 103:1-13; MATTHEW 10:29-30; ROMANS 8:14-16; 1 JOHN 4:14-19

Today my dad gave me a hug

I felt safe and warm inside

It made me think of how You love me

And are holding me so tight.

Today my dad encouraged me

“You’re my child,

and I’m proud of you.”

And I thought of all the ways

You tell me that too.

Today my dad was busy

He missed a really big day

But I remembered

You’re always here for me

And You care about what I have to say.

Today my dad lied to me

And then got mad and yelled

I’m thankful You keep your promises

And never shut me out.

Sometimes a dad

can show God’s love

Sometimes pain abounds

But even then,

I have a Perfect Father

Who will never let me down. • Faith Lewis

• What are some ways that the people around you point you toward God’s love for you? Perhaps you have a parent who makes you laugh, and that reminds you of how God delights in blessing you. Or maybe there’s a friend who is always willing to listen to you, and that makes you think of how God is there for you no matter what.

• God created fatherhood as a gift to show His love, but because we live in a world that has been broken by sin, it doesn’t always happen that way. Sometimes, a dad may not be around for some reason, and all parents have times when they sin and hurt us. If they know Jesus, the Holy Spirit will help them repent, but these situations can still be so hard. Thankfully, Jesus promises to be with us in them. Don’t be afraid to cry out to God—He cares about your pain, and He alone is a perfect Father. What fears or doubts might be keeping you from resting in that truth today? Who are trusted Christians in your life you can talk to about this, such as pastors, parents, teachers, or counselors?

• Are there any dads or father figures in your life who’ve shown God’s love to you? Consider taking a moment to thank God for them, and maybe thank the person/people too!

“I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:18 (NIV)