Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). Have you thought about the inheritance that you will one day leave for the next generation?
What is the greatest legacy a father can pass to his children? To his grandchildren, and to subsequent generations?
The gift of spiritual heritage is of eternal value. It potentially impacts lives for generations.
And a father’s godly influence in the lives of his family is most evident in his love of – and commitment to live out the principles contained in – the Word of God.
I’m convinced the Lord has tasked fathers with the formation of a biblical worldview in the developing minds of their children. Unfortunately, many men miss this principle, and pass on the spiritual education of their kids – if it happens at all – to mothers.
But if the Body of Christ is to fulfill its mandate in our 21
st century culture, men need to step it up – to become intentional in preparing the next generation to live out the Gospel.
And that’s where a biblical worldview – and a corresponding love of the Bible – comes to the fore of a father’s role as a primary objective in coaching his children.
A worldview is the lens through which every person determines that which is true from that which is false; that which is right morally from that which is wrong.
And a worldview informs a person’s view on marriage, family, sex, abortion, politics, entertainment, education – really all of life. It addresses the basic building blocks of character construction: origin, destiny, meaning and purpose, morality and ethics.
True Christ-followers have always been known by their biblical worldview, and in most cultures, that is what sets them apart.
Their basic view of life is different, radically different.
Believers living for the Lord live out an entirely unique cross-focussed, Christ-centred paradigm.
The greatest influence in impacting the worldview our kids adopt, is an opportunity – and an obligation – God has imposed on fathers.
In a future day, we will be judged on our performance.
And it begins with our own love of the Word of God.
Takeaway: May we be characterized as aspiring to the heart of David when he wrote the following words 3000 years ago:
The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple.The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring for ever. The ordinances of the LORD are sure and altogether righteous.They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb.By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward (Psalm 19:7-11).
- graphic by Denise Docherty, freeimages.com
