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This morning we highlight five fathers in the Bible who encourage us with timeless lessons about how to behave and how not to behave. The stories surrounding these men offer biblical references about fatherhood that can inspire us all.
1. Adam
Adam was the first man and first human father. He had no example to follow except for God's. Regrettably, he strayed from God's example and ended up plunging the world into sin. Adam and his wife Eve had sons Cain, Abel and Seth as well as other sons and daughters. Adam has much to teach today's fathers about the consequences of our actions and the absolute necessity of obeying God. He teaches us that Fathers with integrity live in the knowledge that nothing is hidden from God's sight.
“So God created man in his [own] image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. “ Genesis 1:27 KJV
2. Abraham
What could be more frightening than being the father of an entire nation? That was the mission God gave Abraham. He was a leader of tremendous faith, passing one of the most difficult tests God ever gave a man: offering his son Isaac as a sacrifice. Abraham made mistakes when he relied on himself instead of God. Still, he embodied qualities that any father would be wise to develop. Abraham teaches us that God wants to use us in spite of our shortcomings. He will even rescue and support us through our foolish mistakes. Genuine faith pleases God.
“Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be Abraham; for a father of many nations have I made thee.” Genesis 17:5 KJV
“And he said, Take now thy son, thine only [son] Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of.” Genesis 22:2 KJV
3. Esau
As a boy, Joseph saw his uncle, Esau, forgive his father, Jacob, for stealing his birthright. After years of being estranged and angry, Esau’s very public forgiveness was an incredible act of kindness, an incredible show of mercy. Fast forward many years to the scene in Genesis 45 where Joseph, now the prime minister of Egypt, forgives his brothers for selling him into slavery and years in prison. He could have gotten revenge, but noticed what got passed down to him from Esau—mercy, forgiveness, and kindness. What made the difference was that Esau started a blessing and modeled love and forgiveness for his family, children, and his nephews.
“But as for you, ye thought evil against me; [but] God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as [it is] this day, to save much people alive. Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.” Genesis 50:20-21 KJV
4. Joseph the earthly Father of Jesus
One of the most underrated fathers in the Bible was Joseph, the foster father of Jesus Christ. He went through great difficulties to protect his wife Mary and their baby, then saw to Jesus' education and needs as he was growing up. Joseph taught Jesus the carpentry trade. The Bible calls Joseph a righteous man, and Jesus must have loved his guardian for his quiet strength, honesty, and kindness. Joseph teaches us that God honors men of integrity and rewards them with his trust. Mercy always wins.
“Then Joseph her husband, being a just [man], and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. “ Matthew 1:19 KJV
5. God the Father
The most important father figure in the Bible is God the Father—the ultimate role model for all human dads. God the Father, the First Person of the Trinity, is the father and creator of all. Jesus, his only Son, showed us a new, intimate way of relating to Him. When we see God as our heavenly Father, provider, and protector, it puts our lives in a whole new perspective. God is constant; He never changes. God teaches us we can depend on Him. He is faithful. He is love.
“For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether [they be] thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.” Colossians 1:16-17 KJV
To God be the Glory that Our heavenly father is an example for ALL earthly fathers to emulate. He offers up the most powerful example of what it means to be a Dad.
HAPPY FATHERS DAY!
Sister Cathy Black
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