No excuses
God is accessible to everyone and no one really has an excuse for not finding Him. The wonders of creation, the written word (Bible), miracle of birth and life all point to Him. “For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse.” (Romans 1.20) But many attempt to find Him in all the wrong places or in the wrong way, such as different religions.
Dads, have you ever pointed your children to God in a way that they can find Him and have a personal relationship with Him? Are you modeling in a way that they can see Him living through you? Do you personally understand the way to God; and if so, can you explain it to them?
He is found through the gospel (good news). So, just what is the gospel? According to 1 Corinthians 15:1-5, summarizing, it is “Christ died for our sins and rose from the dead.” Would that make sense to your young, or older children? Maybe, maybe not! The truth is the only way to know God is through His Son, Jesus. Don’t just believe me; believe Jesus when He said this. “I am the way, the truth and the life; no man (woman or child) comes to the Father except through Me.” Your children need to know how to do that. Share this with them. Take a Bible and let them read the verses.
Bad and good news
Bad News!! We are spiritually separated from God (sin=death).
“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3.23
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6.23
Good News!! God resolved our situation thru Jesus; but we must believe.
“But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5.8
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” Ephesians 2.8,9
So, what must one do in light of the above? It is clearly stated in John 5.24. Jesus is speaking: “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life.”
Can it be more clear, more certain or easier to receive the free gift of eternal life?
Faith
God said it; I believe it; that settles it!! If this is the desire of your children’s heart, then have them pray this prayer. And remember that it is not the prayer that saves, but faith in Christ.
‘Dear God, I know I’m a sinner. I know my sin deserves to be punished. I believe Christ died for me and rose from the grave. I trust Jesus Christ alone as my Savior. Thank you for the forgiveness and everlasting life I now have. In Jesus’ name, amen.’
Welcome them into the kingdom of God. They may not hear it audibly, but the angels in heaven are rejoicing. And I would suspect that you are also.
Now, at home, as the spiritual leader and patriarch of your family…
read and study the Bible with them and your wife;
challenge them to memorize short verses each week;
pray regularly for and with them;
arrange a water baptism service for them;
participate in a mission to the poor and needy with them;
prepare and deliver a written and spoken blessing on them with your family.
Dad, I applaud you!
