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“My dad is pretty great. Not much for words, but what he does say is pretty darn important. I never once questioned his unconditional love. Okay, maybe once. What five year old doesn’t have a weak moment?”
“But seriously, my dad is the most loving and generous man I know. He has been a constant role model of what a godly husband and father should look like. I can’t tell you how many performances and programs he attended and watched while I was growing up, not because they were his favorite, but because he wanted to support me. He’s a champ in my book. He did this and many other things because he cared about me. He supported me in doing what I loved and continues to do so today.”
Those are precious words from a young woman about her dad. He is not perfect, but he is her dad. Have they always agreed about everything? No, they haven’t. Did he understand every ‘girl’ thought that went through her mind? No, he didn’t. But in her eyes, he was the go-to guy.
As she and her brother talked about their childhoods, her brother conveyed similar thoughts. He told her, “You know, Dad has always been hard-working and family focused. But what I appreciate most about him is he is a Christian husband and father. He took time with us and I believe he molded me into the man I am today. I am truly blessed to have him as my dad.”
Neither scenario shared is about the perfect father. But in their eyes he was the perfect dad for them. In their eyes his love for the Lord, his love for their mother and their family, along with his character and integrity are what makes him special.
Deuteronomy 6:5-7 is very clear with its message for fathers. They are to, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”
How comforting to know that despite our imperfections our Heavenly Father loves us unconditionally and serves as the perfect role model and example for us as we live this imperfect earthly life.
A father’s job is not easy. He needs patience, wisdom, grace, love and more to raise a child in the way he should go. Ephesians 6:4 says, “Father’s, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.”
Dads everywhere experience good times, challenges, and indescribable moments that come with raising children. It is the time invested that produces the beautiful memories. In the words of C. Everett Koop, “Life affords no greater responsibility, no greater privilege, than the raising of the next generation.”
A father serves as a role model for his children. He introduces them to scripture and guides them as to how they are to live their lives. His teachings are to be out of love for his children. And while parenting is not easy, it is the commitment godly fathers make as they raise children in a Christ-honoring manner.
As you think about the ‘dad’ in your life, remember his guiding hands, his kind heart, and his love for the Lord. Remember he is a guiding light whose love shows you the way.
On this Father’s Day take the time to thank him, love him, and honor him. Celebrate with him and share special memories. You’ll be so glad you did.
I’ll be praying for you.
Mitzi
Great message. Love you.