I Am: Fathered

1 Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. 2 Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise), 3 that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land. 4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

Ephesians 6:1-4 ESV

I hope you are enjoying the rare and precious rain we are experiencing. There is something about rain that causes me to think philosophically and reminisce about my past relationships and experiences. Lately I’ve been thinking about family; especially my 83-year-old dad whom I, along with my 83-year-old mom, love dearly.

The truth is, whether you are conscious of it or not, one of the most important people in your life is your dad. He has more power than anyone to influence you—either for good or for not so good. When you hear the word “father,” does it conjure up amazing memories or does it cause you to sense loss because he has somehow failed you? Men, what kind of father are you or will you be? Women, what are your hopes for your present or future husband?

In part 13 of our Identity Sermon Series at Connect Ministry, we look to Ephesians 6:1-4 for Paul’s guidance on being a father.