In 1976, while worshiping, I saw heaven open. I then heard God say, “Welcome home, son.” In that moment, I knew that God is our heavenly Father. He then reached down, touched my raised left hand, and filled me with His Holy Spirit and His love (James 1:17).

     In Romans 8:15, Paul tells us that we have received the Spirit of adoption, by which we cry “Abba Father.” ‘Abba’ is translated as “dear daddy,” a term of endearment. Our heavenly Father desires His children to personally know Him as their Abba Father (Jeremiah 24:7).

     Since that day, I have been fathered by our Heavenly Father. His heart often overlaps with mine, revealing His love, thoughts, and ways to me. Many times, I have wept in repentance for the areas Daddy has shown me that were not Christ-like. He does not bring correction to condemn or punish. Instead, out of love, He corrects so I can “Be partakers of His holiness” (Hebrews 12:10). I gladly accept correction because, after the cleansing, what remains within is more of His divine Spirit, nature, and presence (Hebrews 12:8).

    Recently, Abba Father gave me a pep talk. I was reflecting on issues I have with specific individuals before Him. No matter how much I try to help them or how many times they say ‘I am sorry,’ they don’t change—saying one thing but doing another, which leads to frustration and disappointment. Out of love and compassion, we don’t want to turn them away. Then I heard my Father speak this to me. 

     “You have the right, my son, to associate with those who are life-giving, not those who lack in godly character and behavior. You have the right, my son, to avoid proclaiming Christians, but follow their selfish ways. You have the right, my son, to steer clear of those who sow discord and strife, manipulate, and deceive so that you don’t partake of their fruit." 

    “You have the right, my son, to be the person I created you to be." I wept, feeling the warmth of His words as I experienced inner healing. Having previously shown love and forgiveness, the Father, seeing my heart, blessed me with a newfound freedom. Additionally, as a learning experience, I gained the wisdom to establish boundaries where needed. 

     Many have been taken captive by relationships that broke their hearts—relationships that left them frustrated and disappointed. Feeling used and abused, they are determined never to be exploited or taken advantage of again. God uses these experiences as lessons that bring wisdom and understanding. As our Father has guided me and brought much-needed healing, I can attest that Malachi 4:2 is a word for you today. 

    “The sun of righteousness is now rising with healing in His wings.”

 His heart and love- Roy Roden

Eastgate Ministries.