Daily Truth: “Honor your father…which is the first commandment with promise.” Ephesians 6:2
Honor your father is such a passe’ phrase in this day. How are most father’s portrayed? Well, let me give you an idea…lazy, sitting in front of the TV, remote in one hand, demanding, self absorbed, and ignorant of all that goes on around them. Basically, a space filler.
However, that is far from the description of my father. My father was a godly man who made it clear what his priorities were: God, family, and work.
Mom was queen in the house and my siblings and we never doubted their love and commitment for each other.
We never saw dad just sit. He was always on the go, whether it was fixing something in the house or spending time with his family.
We always knew we were loved and that he was proud of us. He was always there for us, willing to here our concerns, and praying for us.
He was man enough to stand up for his family and humble enough to serve others. Tears were a sign of strength in our dad.
He LOVED his grand kids. He was always so excited to see them and when we would part he would gather us together and pray for each grandchild by name.
When I was younger, I wanted to marry someone just like my dad. You know what? I did! My husband portrays all those same characteristics to my kids as my dad did to me.
This Father’s Day is going to be a very difficult for me. You see, my dad passed away unexpectedly this past September and this will be my first Father’s Day fatherless.
My husband is in Panama on a mission trip this Father’s Day. So, my kids are missing their dad as well as their grandfather.
You know, it’s too late for me to tell my dad just how much I loved him or how thankful I am for all that did for our family. I miss his hugs, his advice, and his booming voice saying, “Proud of you kiddo”. Yet, I can still honor him by my life and by showing honor to my husband.
I want my kids to know that their dad is king in our house.
I want them to know that he is loved and that they will never doubt our commitment to each other.
I want them to know that his strength is often displayed in his quietness and tears.
I want them to know what his priorities are: God, family, work.
I want them to know that he is proud of them and prays for them daily.
I want them to know that he is man enough to stand up for his family but is humble enough to serve others.
I want my boys to view their dad as their hero and my girls to view their dad as their first love.
I want my girls to want to marry someone just like their dad.
I want my kids to get excited to see their dad when he comes home from work.
I want to be second to my husband.
Did dad have his shortcomings? Yes, but those aren’t remembered.
Does my husband have his shortcomings? Yes. But I made a vow that I would do my best to NEVER be critical of my husband to my kids, family, or friends. I haven’t always succeeded, but I have done and am doing my best to be his greatest cheerleader.
So take the time to teach your kids to honor their father. It was so important to God, that He made it the first commandment with a promise….”our days may be long upon the earth.” (Deuteronomy 5:16)
Until Next Monday,
Rebekah
