One Desire Fast is HMCC’s annual fast so we can start off the year hearing from God, both individually and as a church. This year’s theme is Simple Pursuit.
James 1:17 ESV “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”
We often ask God for provisions, whether it’s peace during a difficult season or a certain door to be opened. But we often look to God as a means to an end. Even if we know that God is worthy and is our creator, we sometimes see Him as a distant being, especially when our prayers are not answered. When we only focus on what we are lacking, it’s easy to lose trust in God despite how much He has already done in our lives. That’s why it’s important to understand God as our perfect Father who knows us and provides for us what we need when we need it.
As children, we sometimes struggled to understand why our parents did certain things – be it discipline for our misbehavior, extra classes we were forced to take, or the times they said “No!” to us. Only when we grow up do we understand better where they are coming from. We begin to realize that their intentions are rooted in wanting the best for us. Similarly, as spiritual children, we lack the insight and wisdom to always grasp what God our Father is doing. God’s will and timing are perfect, and as we read in James 1:17, and God’s gifts are also perfect. When we are deeply longing for something, begging God to end a painful season, or even crying out in the midst of the discipline we are receiving, it’s important to remember that God is not just a distant omnipotent being to give us things, but a personal father who knows what’s best for us! God also disciplines those He loves. And when we hurt, God’s heart also hurts for us. Sometimes He allows us to go through difficult moments to draw us closer to Him as sons and daughters who belong to Him and His family.
So how do you see God? Do you see Him as some sort of genie, a strict coach or boss, or as an unconditionally loving Father that knows what is best for you? Set aside some time today to reflect on how far God has brought you. How has He provided for you, disciplined you, shown you love, embraced you as a part of His family? Has He cared for you and carried you through difficult challenges in your career or relationships?
Remember, God desires us to be close to Him. Let’s draw near to Him today and spend time with our Father!
Reflection and Application
- How does your relationship with your earthly parents affect your view of God as your Father? How can you come to God today as a child comes to their father?
- In the past year, how has God worked in your life to bring you into His family, to prepare you to be someone who can invite others into His wonderful family?
- What are some simple and tangible things you can do to connect with God as your Father even beyond ODF? For example, you can practice writing a letter to God each week, or take out a pocket of time mid-day to chat with Him in a private space. Write down your simple step and share it with someone who can keep you accountable!
Prayer Requests – HKUST
- To make bold and faith-filled decisions as we depend on God and grow in desiring His will.
- To see Christ-centered community built as we share God’s work in our lives with one another and live life together.
- To open our community to others and display/share what we experience as an overflow of our delight in God.
Click here for full devotional link and for PDF version