“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” — 3 John 4
As I pondered the Father’s Day celebration this month, many memories of my own father flooded my mind. Wonderful memories of a man who took his role as a husband and father seriously. I’m sure he stumbled and had faults. He was human. But, through this daughter’s eyes, he could fix any problem, mend any hurt, and protect against any enemy. He was my dad.
When we look at biblical fathers, the one that stands out for me is Joseph. Perhaps one of the most overlooked, yet greatest examples of a true father. His role was crucial in God’s plan for Jesus to fulfill His earthly destiny. Without Joseph, a pregnant Mary would not have had protection and Jesus would have been denied the love and leadership of a man of God.
God chose Joseph because he had a strong love for the Lord. That love would support Jesus’ formal and informal learning as he grew. Joseph’s involvement in the physical, spiritual, and emotional well being of Jesus had a great impact.
Just like Joseph, today’s fathers can continue to set an example for their children. Daily choices and actions teach and every decision affects the future of a child.
It is difficult for children to begin to understand the heart of God without the leadership of a man who loves and fears and worships the Lord.
In his book, How to Raise Your Children for Christ, Andrew Murray said “Every experience of the love and blessing of a home on earth can be a ladder by which to rise up and get nearer to the Great Father-heart in heaven.”
As a father, each man plays a distinct and important role in the lives and future of the children God placed in his care
Dear Lord, Thank you for placing a true father in my life, His example pointed to You always.
