A father’s love
It has been said that the fruit of the Spirit is love, and the seven attributes of that love are…joy, peace, patience, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. That is one way to interpret Galatians 5.22-23.
Same might be said about the attributes of a father’s love for his children and family. In our book—’From Faith to Faith’, there are nine attributes that give evidence of this love. These make up the all-encompassing role of an abiding father based on God’s word. By understanding these and actively seeking to incorporate them in your toolbox as a dad, you are well on your way to fulfilling the role that God has designed for you as a loving father. What might these be?
Praying Teaching Blessing
Modeling Listening Providing
Mentoring Disciplining Protecting
Pursue
We all understand that perfection is not the goal. No one other than our Everlasting Father is that. But the pursuit of each one of these is what our Father expects of us. We in Abiding Fathers believe “time is love”. Dedicating oneself to these attributes requires time for each and your family will experience your love in a powerful way. And in order to make time, it will require setting priorities and along with that, goals for you to pursue.
It’s not a daily check the box approach. After a while, a rhythm will develop. The Spirit will see to that. It will become natural, and the results will be powerful. So, where do you start? By submitting your passion to be the dad to the Lord and ask him to create in you…servant leadership. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Mt. 5.3) You start there, and God will be with you all the way to fulfill his purpose in and through you.
A lifetime mission
It’s not a one and done thing. It’s a lifestyle and it is a lifetime mission. It’s never too early and never too late to begin this journey of the highest calling in a father’s life. The joy God will provide will be his joy, and it will be complete. Then one day, you will hear the most precious words you will ever want to hear from him—“Well Done!!!” And I might add; your wife, children and several generations will praise God for you. And you can also rejoice with John. “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” (I Jn. 3.4) It’s all about love!
