GIF Fathers

“It is vain for you to rise up early, to retire late, to eat the bread of painful labors; for He gives to His beloved even in his sleep.”

(Psalm 127:2)

Fathers
by Larry Burkett

The following definition of a father was in a letter I received. “My father is the one who slips me an extra $10 for a really big date, the one who never misses my ball game even though we are 0 and 12 for the season, and the one who punishes me but always defends me against everyone else, because he’s my dad, and he’s my best friend.”

It is customary to honor fathers at this time of year, but I want to address fathers. I encourage you not to invest in the urgent things of today, while letting the important things slip by. I’ve talked to so many people who look back and say, “If I could just live my life over again I’d spend more time with my children while they were growing up.”

There are three important investments we have to make in our families. The first is time. God used the Scripture verse for today in my life many years ago when I was working 12 to 16 hours a day. Spend time with your children.

Second, give them your attention. Sometimes, even when we are at home, our minds are elsewhere. Nothing is worth the consequences later.

Third, give them discipline. The proverbs say that poverty and shame will come to them who lack discipline. I don’t mean punishment; I mean setting an example for them to follow so you can mold them into God’s image.

If your father is still living, tell him how much you love and appreciate him.

If you are a father, be the very best one you can be—with God’s help.

Daily Scripture Reading:

1 Kings 9:1-10:13; 2 Chronicles 7:11-9:12