Fathers are the design of our heavenly Father. Not all fathers are great, nor are they all good, but that does not prove that God is a bad designer. No, that only proves that some fathers depart from God's design. But to those who hold to the words of God, though they are not perfect men and have their shortcomings, they are a great example for their children, as the Scripture says, The just man walketh in his integrity: His children are blessed after him (Proverbs 20:7).
Let's look at some attributes that characterized some great fathers we read of in the Bible. Noah is known for his obedience. When God gave Noah instructions concerning the ark, the Bible says, Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he (Genesis 6:22). Noah had three sons, and as I am sure he wanted them to obey him, he provided them with an example of what obedience looks like. It is easier and more delightful to obey the commands of a father if that father is obedient himself to the commands of God.
Abraham is known for his faith. Faith is something that you can see in others (cf. Mark 2:5). His son Isaac had, what you might call, a front row seat to his father's faith. By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son (Hebrews 11:17). This event had to have made quite an impression upon Isaac. To have a father who fully trusts in God, no matter the cost, is inspiring. It is that kind of faith that others want to imitate. In other words, to have a father that walks the walk instead of just being all talk, is a great example to his children.
Joseph is known for being just: Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily (Matthew 1:19). Being just is being interested in doing what is right and thus being right with God. When Joseph found out that Mary was with child before they came together as husband and wife, he was "minded" to do the right thing: to put her away. But Joseph was also merciful, and therefore "minded" to do it privily instead of exposing Mary to public shame. Joseph exemplified the heart of his heavenly Father who is also just and merciful. He is another great example for his children.
None of these men are worthy to loose the sandal strap of our Lord, but because they held to God's design for fathers, they were great fathers. The same could be said of fathers today in our congregation. You may see yourself as struggling to be the father you should be, and may even think yourself a failure. But if you put your trust in the Lord and let his word be your guide, you will be a great father. What does a great father look like? He is an example to his children in obedience to God, in unwavering faith in God, and the desire to be like God by being just but also merciful. Happy Father's Day!
Brotherly, Jamie
