God and Fathers
by Jerome Stewart
There is a quote by Zac Brown which says; “I don’t want to look back and say, ‘Yeah, I was really successful, but I failed at fatherhood because I was not there.”
Today as we celebrate a day set aside to honor fathers, there is much to think about. For any father in need of direction when raising a child, the best advice you can receive is in understanding, not to leave God out of your plans! Isaiah chapter 54 vs. 13 says; “All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children.” And who else will experience a sense of peace? The answer is the parent. It’s a win-win situation. Solomon was a man of wisdom. In Proverbs chapter 1 vs. 8 he says; “My son, hear the instruction of your father, And do not forsake the law of your mother.” Vs. 10 says, “My son, if sinners entice you, Do not consent.” Proverbs chapter 4 vss. 3 thru 5 says; “When I was my father’s son, Tender and the only one in the sight of my mother; He also taught me and said to me: Let your heart retain my words; Keep my commands, and live. Get wisdom! Get understanding! Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth.” The National Fatherhood Initiative says there is a “father absence crisis in America. Youth are more at risk of first substance use without a highly involved father.” Proverbs chapter 20 vs. 7 says; “The righteous man walks in his integrity; His children are blessed after him.” Joshua says chapter 24 vs. 15; “But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” The wisdom necessary to be strong fathers raising children can be found in the word of God. Strongly consider the meaning of the words in Matthew chapter 19 vss. 13 and 14. The bible says; Then the little children were brought to Him that He might put His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for such is the kingdom of heaven.” Which begs the question for any father. Do you know Jesus? If not you need to, so that you can share the good news about Jesus with your children. Be an apologetic man of God! Do not leave out Jesus! He is our only hope. To you fathers, who are doing the best that you can in raising your children; “Happy Father’s Day!”
Very good topic, and you covered it well.