gratitude
Devotions,  Gratitude

Approaching Your Father


“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” – Philippians 4:6, NIV


Austin had never been close to his father. His dad provided for his family but rarely engaged with them. This emotional abandonment left Austin to question what the role of a loving father looked like.

The confusion bled over into his spiritual life and while Austin loved God, he didn’t feel engaged with Him. He was afraid to ask God anything or bring his hard questions to Him for fear he’d be rejected.

But that changed for Austin in college when his football coach took him under his wing. For the first time, Austin experienced the deep and rich love of a father figure. He learned that he could approach his coach for guidance when he needed help in any area of his life.

The closer Austin grew to his coach, the more he learned about the true nature of God. He discovered that God delights in hearing our requests and longs for His children to come to Him.

You may also be unsure of how God views you. You may be afraid to “bug” God and think you can’t approach Him. But God is eagerly waiting for you to step into His presence and share your pressing concerns.


God I’m not always sure how to approach You but I know I want You to be part of my life. I thank You for the reminder that You are always approachable. Show me what a kind, loving father You are. Help me learn to bring every situation to You for guidance.