Tomorrow is a day that our nation has set aside to honor fathers, and to do so is indeed biblical and an important aspect of the Christian life (Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:2). But need I say that our nation is in the midst of a gender siege? The biblical definitions of manhood and womanhood have come under severe attack by the liberal media and church.
So as I write this devotional, though I am just in the prayer and gathering together stage of my preparation for Sunday’s message, I feel the need to address each of the men here at Koinonia, whether young or old, married or single, about the importance of being a Christ-centered, Word- and Spirit-filled man in whatever sphere of life God has you in.
That said, I cannot help but think of the “conversation” that the father has with his son in the book of Proverbs about the facts of life. Those God-inspired truths are as relevant today as when they were written. And what was the beginning or foundational truth that the young man needed to grasp? “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7)
Fathers, let us not forsake imparting this foundational truth to our children, whether they want to hear it or not! Let us not neglect doing what we are Scripturally commanded to do (Deuteronomy 6:5-7; Genesis 18:19) because Billy or Susie does not want to hear it. Be a man of God in your home. Do not make following Christ an option when God tells us that following Him is a commandment (Joshua 24:14).
To all husbands, may we be reminded on this special day of the call of God upon our lives to love our wives like Jesus loves the Church (Ephesians 5:25-29). One of the greatest needs in our nation and the Church is for men to be Christ-loving, understanding husbands (1 Peter 3:7). After all, God’s ways are the best ways for all of us. “Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in His ways.” (Psalm 128:1)
Men, may we purpose to live lives that will bless our heavenly Father, today and every day.
