Heidelberg Catechism: Lord's Day 9

Lord’s Day 9 of the Heidelberg Catechism offers a soul-warming reminder of God’s gracious providence as our heavenly Father. It anchors us in the comforting truth of Question 26, something we'll discuss next week—that the eternal, almighty God, who created all things by His powerful word, is not a distant deity but a loving Father who cares for us through His Son, Jesus Christ.

This is no abstract theology; it’s at the heart of the Christian faith. In a world swirling with uncertainty, we’re invited to rest in the assurance that every detail of our lives—joys, sorrows, and everything in between—is held in the hands of the One who promises to work all things for our good. What a privilege to call the Creator of heaven and earth "our Father" through the redeeming work of Christ!

This truth lights a fire of encouragement for us as believers. Because God is both sovereign and tender, we can face each day with bold confidence, knowing that nothing escapes His care—not the sparrow’s fall, and certainly not us, His blood-bought children. Lord’s Day 9 celebrates the call to trust our Father fully, not just for salvation but for every breath we take. It’s a gentle nudge to lift our eyes above life’s storms and marvel at the Father’s faithful provision, promised in His Word and sealed by His Spirit.

Question 24

How are these articles divided?

Into three parts: the first is about God the Father and our creation; the second, about God the Son and our redemption; the third, about God the Holy Spirit and our sanctification.

Question 25

Since there is only one God,¹ why do you speak of three: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit?

Because God has so revealed Himself in His Word,² that these three distinct Persons are the one, true, eternal God.

¹ Deut 6:4; Isa 44:6, 45:5; 1 Cor 8:4, 6; ² Gen 1:2-3; Isa 61, 63:8-10; Mt 3:16-17, 28:18-19; Lk 4:18; Jn 14:26, 15:26; 2 Cor 13:14; Gal 4:6; Tit 3:5-6

The Comfort of Providence

The Catechism teaches:

The eternal Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who out of nothing created heaven and earth, still upholds and governs them. For the sake of Christ His Son, He is my God and my Father. In Him I trust completely, knowing He will provide all I need for body and soul and turn adversity to my good. He is able as almighty God and willing as a faithful Father.

Here is our great comfort: God’s sovereign rule is not distant but personal. He directs all things for our good, even in suffering.

Faith, therefore, is not just belief in God's existence—it is trusting Him as Father. This trust gives us confidence in trials, patience in suffering, and gratitude in blessing. Our lives are not left to chance, but are held in His strong and loving hands.

A Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for being our Creator and Father through Christ. Teach us to trust in Your sovereign care, to see Your hand in all things, and to rest in Your unfailing love.

Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.

Amen.

Daily Bible Readings

New Testament in a Year

March 2 – Mark 6:1-29
March 3 – Mark 6:30-56
March 4 – Mark 7:1-23
March 5 – Mark 7:24-37
March 6 – Mark 8:1-21
March 7 – Mark 8:22-38
March 8 – Mark 9:1-13

The Bible in a Year

March 2 – Deuteronomy 1-2; Mark 6:1-29
March 3 – Deuteronomy 3-4; Mark 6:30-56
March 4 – Deuteronomy 5-7; Mark 7:1-23
March 5 – Deuteronomy 8-10; Mark 7:24-37
March 6 – Deuteronomy 11-13; Mark 8:1-21
March 7 – Deuteronomy 14-16; Mark 8:22-38
March 8 – Deuteronomy 17-19; Mark 9:1-13