I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one. – John 17:11 NIV
Steps on Your Journey to Know God More Intimately
- In John 17:1, Jesus referred to God as Father. Here He adds that God is a Holy Father. God is not only a loving and kind Father to us, but He is also holy.
- The Greek word for holy, Hagios, means sacred, pure, moral or blameless. Merriam-Webster defines holy as “exalted or worthy of complete devotion as one perfect in goodness and righteousness.” Pater means Father.
- Meditate on this name. What does it mean to you that God is a Holy Father? He is Jesus’ Holy Father, but He is also your Holy Father.
- Notice what Jesus was asking His Father to do—protect us by the power of His name. Think about that. What does it mean to you that God protects you by the power of His name?
- Jesus was also asking His Holy Father to make us one, as He is one with the Father. How are they one?
- How do you think God wants us to be one with other believers? What might that look like? Ask the Lord to show you.
A Prayer for You
Holy Father, I worship You because You are worthy of my complete devotion. You are pure, blameless and perfect, yet You are also my loving Father. Thank You. Teach me to know You and honor You more.
Excerpted from The Surprising Joy of Exploring God’s Heart by Gaylyn Williams.