He is a very unique man who is consistent in his beliefs and stands on issues with a keen understanding of the impact he has on generations to come. He is committed to doing what is right, with perseverance second to none. He is a humble leader who accepts responsibility for preserving this one nation under God. He is Dad.
Dads getting it right – understanding how powerful they are and being engaged in raising a godly generation, provide the solution to most of the societal woes we face. Core groups of dads in a number of churches are getting it right. One core group recently wrote, “We have made great memories with our children and with other dads through the successful events that Faithful Fathering has helped us plan, which have created a positive and contagious buzz within our fellowship. You have challenged, encouraged and equipped us to engage with our kids and our own fathers in pivotal discussions that have eternal value – the power to turn hearts, strengthen, heal and restore.”
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing. But encouraging one another – and all the more as you see the Day approaching. – Hebrews 10:24-25. The reason the author of Hebrews emphasizes “not giving up meeting together” is that lone ranger Christians are easy targets for the devil’s schemes. We men in particular can get so focused on working harder, doing more to overcome whatever obstacle is in front of us that we lose sight of the impact the situation may be having on us and our family. Alcoholism, workoholism and pornography are a few of the devil’s best schemes that take out lone ranger men. Marriages and family are collateral damage. Men, husbands and fathers must make time to meet together routinely in order to “spur one another on.”
Five core group leaders of dads in different churches recently met to compare notes on successes and challenges they have had on the fathering front. Successes included great stories of dads and kids enjoying overnights on church grounds, fishing outings and canoe trips; Moms texting core group leaders to thank them for conducting the study for dads their husbands had attended; and, Dads asking when the next father-daughter retreat would be. Challenges centered around busy-ness of doing life – schedules so full that church and family time get squeezed out. The result can be “giving up meeting together” even in family and that is a challenge that must be met head on.
Prayer guide: My Father, thank You for Your word and Your love. I confess I have been a lone ranger Christian, an overcomer determined to be a better dad than my dad was. Forgive me. It was not until I read Your word and grew in relationship with You that I began to truly understand a father’s role. Thank You for bringing other dads into my life that challenge me to become the father You call me to be and hold me accountable on the journey. There is great power passed on with the moniker “father” You share with men. Help me be the father You expect me to be, the father the next generation needs. Amen.
A faithful father steps up as the most powerful man in the world.
