Daily Companion | 25 January
ABBA, FATHER
“For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, ‘Abba, Father.’” - Romans 8:15 (NKJV)
Russell Moore, the ethicist and theologian, and his wife adopted two boys from a Russian orphanage. The boys arrived traumatized, silent, withdrawn, unsure of love. One night, one of the little boys, still learning to trust, climbed into Moore's lap during a storm. Clinging tightly, the child whispered for the first time, "Daddy." Moore later wrote that in that instant, he understood the cry of "Abba, Father" as never before; not as abstract theology, but as the intimate, vulnerable plea of a child finally secure in a father's arms.
“Abba” is the Aramaic term of tender endearment: a child's affectionate “Daddy” combined with “Father” to express both intimacy and reverence. Through the Spirit, God invites us into this close, familial relationship. We are not distant servants or fearful orphans; we are beloved children with full access to the Father's heart.
Beloved, this is the breathtaking gift of the gospel: you are no longer slaves to fear, but adopted sons and daughters. “And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, ‘Abba, Father!’” (Galatians 4:6, NKJV).
Our Lord Jesus Himself modeled this cry in His darkest hour: in the Garden of Gethsemane, facing the cross, He prayed, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. (Mark 14:36). Even in agony, He approached the Father with trust and closeness. Because of Christ's work, the same Spirit now dwells in us, enabling us to cry “Abba, Father” in every season, joyful or sorrowful, strong or weak.
Today, let the Spirit stir this cry within you. You belong. You are wanted. You are safe. No performance required, no fear of rejection. Run to your Abba. Pour out your heart, rest in His embrace, and live as a dearly loved child. You are not alone. You are His. Cry out, “Abba, Father,” and know He delights to hear you.
Today’s Recite: “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.” — Mark 14:36 (NKJV)
Today’s Morning Prayers: Abba, Father, thank You for adopting me as Your child through Jesus Christ. Thank You for sending the Spirit of Your Son into my heart, enabling me to cry out to You with intimacy and confidence. Release me from every spirit of fear and bondage. Let me approach You today as Your beloved son/daughter - boldly, tenderly, trustingly. In every need, every joy, every trial, help me call You “Abba, Father” and rest in Your perfect love. In Jesus’ mighty name. Amen.
Today Hymn: TO GOD BE THE GLORY
Today ReadMe: Exodus 39 – 40
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