“Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4 NASB)
It’s Father’s Day, but instead of a conventional comment, expressing appreciation to Dads, this morning, I want to show appreciation to Dad’s, Church Leaders, and all Father Figures. Such appreciation is warranted, well-deserved. And let’s be real, face the facts, “Father Figures” a term limited to the male species, but it includes females who have filled in the void left by absentee fathers. Let me make it clear. You see, it would be insidious to ignore the fact that when Dad’s don’t, won’t, or can’t meet the requirements of a good father, others, regardless of gender have been the ones who have served as – Father Figures. Therefore, let me speak to fathers and Father Figures.
If you have been a person like Father Abraham and demonstrated faith and trust in the Lord. I commend you; I congratulate you, and I and others, certainly appreciate you. If you have been a person that prayed every day, like Job, who rose up and prayed for his children every morning, whether you are biologically connected, spiritually connected, or you have assumed the roles that all dad’s should perform – you are an appreciated “Father Figure.”
If you can be compared to Noah, one who walked faithfully with God, impacting children of all generations, be it in the home or outside the home – you are appreciated as a “Father Figure.” You may not be called “Dad,” “Daddy,” “Father,” Pops,” or “Pappa. You may not be the man who rightfully calls himself the head of the house, but if you are like Jacob, irrespective of your flaws, in spite of your failings, and regardless of your fights against the struggles of this wickedness in this world; notwithstanding all that you gave or you are given in the past, or you are giving even now, blessings that will alter the course of children’s life for good – you are appreciated as a “Father Figure.”
Remember, I am talking to Dad’s, Church Leaders, mothers, grandmothers, aunts, pastors, teachers, and other Christians in position where they can have godly influence on children of all ages. You are appreciated as a “Father Figure.” Keep leading our children down the straight and narrow path of righteousness. Keep loving them as Christ loved you, sacrificing as Christ sacrifices for you, teaching them principles for living, as Christ taught you. Happy Father’s Day! Be blessed!
“A good father not only tells us how to live, he shows us.“ (Anonymous Quote)
Committed to the climb,
Mark L. King
Great to have loving fathers and father figures that guide our children in the way that they should go based on the word of God.
Bless them! Fathers who leave a “True Legacy.” Be blessed Dr. King!