Distant God? Or Devoted Father? (Psalm 103; LD 46)

Understanding Our Heavenly Father

At first, the idea of calling God our Father can feel strange. This is because He seems distant or absent from us, being all the way in heaven. Yet Scripture and the catechism remind us that God’s fatherhood is not about abandonment, but about his personal majesty and personal care. Our desire to pray to Him as our Father reflects the truth that he has secured us in Christ, making him not only our Creator but also our Redeemer.

Earthly Fathers and God’s Image

Human experiences with fathers shape how we perceive God. Psychological research shows that children without present fathers often struggle with impulse control, moral development, and independence. Likewise, some of the top Atheist thinkers who criticize Christianity grew up without Fathers. Paul Vitz’s “Faith of the Fatherless” is a good study to read for further reflection. The point of this shows us that earthly fathers influence our perception of God. Psalm 103 counters distorted views, revealing a Father who is merciful, compassionate, and full of steadfast mercy.

God’s Compassion and Steadfast Love

Though God’s throne is in heaven, He is not distant or indifferent. Psalm 103 emphasizes His mercy, grace, and the complete removal of our sins “as far as the east is from the west.” Fear of God, properly understood, is reverence, not terror. God knows our fragility; he knows that we are dust, and he upholds us. This shows his love, inviting us to draw near and live in confidence of His care and redemption.

Living as Children of a Redeeming Father

Recognizing God as our heavenly Father transforms how we live and relate to Him. His steadfast love and mercy encourage gratitude, reverence, and obedience. We should not do this out of terror, but out of trust and devotion. As Psalm 103 teaches, God’s care is constant, His throne is established forever, and His children are never abandoned. We are called to bless, praise, and find joy in being His redeemed children. Let us see our God as the Father who has revealed himself in his word, and not the false views we impose on him.