“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.” —Luke 15:20

When Jesus told the parable of the prodigal son, he gave us a glimpse of His vibrant, unconditional love for us as our Everlasting Father. I especially love this detail: “but while he was still a long way off, his father saw him…” This father knew his son had sinned against him, yet it seems as though he was still anticipating, hoping for, and anxiously awaiting his son’s return. Our Everlasting Father has the same unconditional love and immeasurable compassion for us. Even when we go astray, He watches and waits for us to turn back to Him so that He can run to us, throw His arms around us and kiss us. And this is only the beginning…

The blessings continue when we walk with the Lord and submit to His authority as our Everlasting Father. This way, we position ourselves to let Him fight our battles because our Everlasting Father is also our enduring protector. It sounds like an easy concept, but it’s difficult to live like you truly believe it. Sometimes when I am going through a hardship in life, I am overwhelmed by fear and it seems easier to rely on my own power instead of trusting in Christ’s protection. This fear only lasts as long as it takes for me to sincerely remember whose daughter I am. And sometimes, like a snotty little princess, I imagine telling the enemy, “Do you know who my Father is?!” Remember: our Everlasting Father is our protector and He already won this battle.

In addition to being our enduring protector, our Everlasting Father is our provider. His Word tells us that He will “supply all our needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). Wow, what a promise! Remember that God’s provision extends beyond just physical and financial needs. He is also faithful to provide for our emotional needs. Our Everlasting Father gives comfort to those who are mourning, and peace to the anxious. Don’t hesitate to rely on His provision by praying for encouragement on the days you are feeling discouraged or asking for extra joy when you need it.

How blessed are we to be called daughters of a King and to know Jesus as our Everlasting Father! Let’s walk in truth as we know His enduring provision and protection in our lives. Let our growing faith bring glory to Him.