Portrait of a Perfect Father

As we approach Father's Day, many do so with heavy hearts and mixed emotions. If our fathers have disappointed us, abandoned us, mistreated us, or left us through death: what a gift to know that we have a Perfect Father, who has never and will never disappoint, abandon, mistreat or leave us! And if our fathers have done their best and we couldn't wish for any better - even then: what a gift to know God as the Father who loves us infinitely, without fail.

Our Perfect Father...
...loves His children.
Behold, what manner of love the Father has bestowed upon us, that we should be called children of God! (1 John 3:1)
As a father has compassion upon his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him. (Psalm 103:13)
...knows and understands His children.

O Lord, You have searched me and You know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar; You comprehend my path and are acquainted with all my ways... (Psalm 139:1-3)

...enjoys His children.
“The Lord your God is in your midst, the Mighty One, who saves; He will rejoice over you with gladness; He will quiet you with His love; He will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17)
...is responsive to His children.
Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; He rises to show you compassion... How gracious He will be when you cry for help! As soon as He hears, He will answer you. (Isaiah 30:18-19)
...guides and teaches His children.
The Lord delights in the way of the man whose steps He has made firm. Though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with His right hand. (Psalm 37:23-24)
He will feed His flock like a shepherd; He will gather the lambs with His arm, And carry  them in His bosom, and gently lead those who are with young. (Isaiah 40:11)
...protects His children.  
“Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have called you by name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the Lord your God...” (Isaiah 43:1-3)
...comforts His children.
The Lord is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit. (Psalm 34:18)
...corrects His children.
Do not be discouraged when you are corrected by Him, for whom the Lord loves He disciplines... For our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. (Hebrews 12: 5-6 & 10)
...is generous with His children.
The Lord is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He also will hear their cry and save them. (Psalm 145:17-19)
How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings. They are abundantly satisfied with the fullness of Your house, And You give them drink from the river of Your pleasures. (Psalm 36:7-9)
...provides for His children.
And my God shall meet all your need according to His riches in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19)
...prepares a future for His children.
“In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. .. I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.” (John 14:2-3)