A Father's Call

Hi,

The first of the five Thursday night "Man to Man" meetings was completed last night. And what a great night of study it was. Our pastor lead the discussion with around forty in attendance. The effort, many hours of prayer and study that our leader put into this was of a great benefit. I received much help throughout the evening as I know all did. What a wonderful group of men to share the love of God with. And please never take lightly the leadership Pastor "A" provides to all of the church. Let's share a though for today concerning the family.

Colossians 3 & 4 looks at practical holiness to the family unit. Family relationships should be a mirror of our relationship with our heavenly Father. As He values and encourages each of us, no matter our social standing, so we will value and encourage one another, especially within the family unit.

The message to the fathers is strong. They are the earthly representatives of the heavenly Father, so the relationship to their children is crucial. Sweet infants, so beautiful and precious, grow into children and teens that develop their own attitudes, preferences, and personalities. We can choose to be encouraging teachers who shape their lives positively for the kingdom and God, or we can discourage them in a critical manner.

Discouragement is the easy route, often leading to despair and personal destruction. Encouragement requires much more intentional instruction and incredible patience. The investment of time and energy in encouragement, however, will pay huge dividends eventually as a balanced, productive, positive adult emerges who will also encourage others to seek holiness.

When one allows God to make him what he should be then it is not so difficult to do what He wants him to do.

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is the good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." Romans 12:2

Have a wonderful day in the Lord, and may He bless you and yours. Never forget that you are loved!!!

Henry