Most kids are afraid of the dark at some time. Or of the boogeyman. Or of a spider. Usually, the first thing they do is call for their dads—especially if there’s a spider. Dads use their bigger size to protect you from the things that scare you—real or imagined.
As you get older, maybe you feel silly about your toddler fears. As you get bigger, though, your fears get bigger and more serious too. Maybe you fear bullies or your grandparents dying or if you’ll make new friends at your new school.
God tells you that even though you are older, when you are afraid, you still call for your dad, your earthly one, and also your heavenly one. He calls himself your Abba, your Daddy. “You haven’t received the spirit of slaves that leads you into fear again. Instead, you have received the spirit of God’s adopted children by which we call out, ‘Abba! Father!’” (Romans 8:15).
It’s true that just because God loves you doesn’t mean you’ll never have anything bad happen ever—after all, we still live in a sinful world. However, your Abba doesn’t want you to hide from your fears by yourself. Thanks to Jesus’ life and death, you have the right to call for him. Go to him with your fears—and leave them with him.
Thanks, Dad!
Chomp on this!
What fears have you been keeping to yourself? (Be sure to talk about those in your prayers.)
Dear Daddy, you are our big, strong, protective Father. Thank you for letting us call you our Abba and for promising to protect us when we are afraid. You’re the best! Amen.
