“How much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!”

— Matthew 7:11

When my children were small, they looked up to me because I was such a big person in their lives. As they grew older and bigger, though, they realized that I have imperfections and limitations. I am painfully aware that I sometimes let them down, as all fathers have done at times to their children.

But although our fathers may let us down, we can always depend on our heavenly Father.

In the Old Testament, the people of Israel called God their “Father.” They also used many other titles and descriptions to identify God. For example, they called God their “rock,” their “fortress,” and their “shield.” In many passages he is also called “God Almighty” (­El-Shaddai) in recognition of his awesome power and dependability. In the New Testament, Jesus emphasizes his relationship with God as his Father, and he teaches us to trust God as our Father in heaven.

With the Apostles’ Creed, we rightly call God our “Father almighty.” Unlike our earthly fathers, our heavenly Father is perfect and unlimited in his power. Our earthly fathers may sometimes make promises they can’t keep. Our heaven­ly Father not only makes promises but also keeps them all—because of his almighty power and enduring love and ­faithfulness.

God also hears and answers our prayers. Knowing what’s best for us, our Father will always provide what we need.

Father almighty, we rely on your love and faithfulness, trusting that you will never let us down. In Jesus’ name, Amen.