by Kimberly David

Created on: October 01, 2009   Last Updated: October 04, 2009

The Comfort of a Name:

God, in His sovereignty, has told us that suffering will be a part of the Christian life. We suffer because the world hates us. We suffer because Satan wants to discourage us. We also suffer because God in His love longs to make us more like Christ. Suffering is inevitable. But God has not left us comfortless in these trials. He has left us His divine Comforter, the Holy Spirit; and in His word He has given us His "grace to help in time of need." (Heb. 4:16) One of the greatest comforts I have found in times of trouble has been the names of God. My favorite name is Abba.

Throughout Scripture, God has provided us with several names for Himself showing us parts of His character and giving us a little more understanding of who He is. In the Old Testament we see mostly names that speak of His power, might and authority. He is Jehovah God, the Creator, the Judge, the Jealous One. His chosen people, Israel, can come to Him only through sacrifice and a mediator.

In the New Testament we see a God who, because of Christ's death, is approachable for every believer. No longer do we need a priest to go before God on our behalf, we can approach Him ourselves. We can bring our troubles directly to Him. This is part of why I find the name Abba to be so comforting. When I am going through a hard time and there is no one who understands, I can go to the Lord. He has given me access directly to His throne. I know He is big enough to handle my problems, and now I can bring them to Him.

But even more comforting than knowing I can bring my burdens directly to the Lord is the knowledge that He cares. When Paul was writing his letter to the Romans he told them the Lord has adopted each believer. As a part of His family we can come to Him and cry "Abba, Father." (Romans 8:15) Abba was the word a little child would use for his father. It means "Daddy." In essence, we can call God Daddy. He has provided the way for us to have an intimately close relationship with Him. The great Creator of the universe has deigned to reach down and be my Papa. What a thought! And as my Daddy, I know the Lord cares for these little burdens that so plague me. He cares about those trials that seem so big I think I will fall under their weight. He is there. My Father hears me when I pray, and as a Father He lovingly guides and comforts me.

So, I know life will sometimes be difficult. But more importantly, I know my Abba will be there to care and to care for me.

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