“But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” —John 1:12 (ESV)
It’s striking to see the current state of society. At the root of today’s problems is the rebellion and irreverence of the younger generation. Violence in various spheres, family crises, divorces, and separations are all consequences of men losing their place of authority. Many have abandoned their role as fathers, becoming selfish or often irresponsible.
What is closest to God’s heart is the heart of a father. Unfortunately, in today’s world, the concept of fatherhood has been greatly distorted, and many families have felt its absence. Homes are crying out for the restoration of fatherhood. In this blog, I would like to share a few ways you can come to know God as a Father and experience restoration.
1. Forgive and Let Go of Hardness
If you grew up with a distant, abusive, or absent father, the best thing you can do is forgive him. Remember, forgiveness is a decision, not a feeling. Beyond forgiveness, you must let go of any hardness entering your heart. Such experiences often lead us to lose faith in family, develop resentment, or have preconceived notions about God as a Father. I encourage you to set that aside and give the Lord a chance to show you what true fatherhood is.
2. Confess Your Faith Out Loud
The passage from John 1:12 clearly outlines the conditions we must meet to receive God’s fatherhood: “to all who did receive him, who believed in his name.” I invite you to make this simple confession of faith in an audible prayer:
“Lord Jesus, today I receive You into my heart and believe in Your powerful name. Help me to know God as my Father. I ask this in Christ Jesus’ name, amen.”
3. Deepen Your Relationship with Jesus
Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” —John 14:6 (ESV)
Jesus’ redemptive work on the cross is the only path to know God as Father. Spend quality time with Jesus, dedicate time to reading the Word, and pray specifically for a revelation of the Father.
4. Understand Your Legal Right
The word “right” in this verse refers to a legal authority. If you have accepted Jesus into your heart but have not yet known God as your Father, start praying confidently, knowing that your faith in Christ gives you this legal right, and no one can take it from you.
Let the Lord restore fatherhood in your life, and you’ll see how everything around you begins to change.
For a deeper understanding of this topic, I invite you to read the book Touching the Father’s Heart. You can also download this small ebook with reflective verses and a prayer guide.