God As Our Father
OPENING PRAYER:
Dear Father, because I know that You have the words of truth, I ask for insight and encouragement today from Your Word. In Jesus name, Amen.
As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him; for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust. The life of mortals is like grass, they flourish like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD's love is with those who fear him, and his righteousness with their children's children- with those who keep his covenant and remember to obey his precepts. Psalms 103:13-18 NIV
REFLECT:
We all know that it is true; that it is a fact - Life is brief and fragile. None of us are guaranteed tomorrow. Even if we come to terms with this fact about our own mortality, it is so hard to think about this in terms of others that we love, whether young or old. We never want to say goodbye. This is especially true as parents. Even as our children grow up and wander from the nest, we still want to guide, protect, and instruct them. According to today’s Scripture, there is a way that we can help our children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Our heavenly Father’s love is from everlasting to everlasting. As we live lives that reflect His love and attracts our kids to Him, we equip them for success well beyond our own brief lifespans. Not only that, but we receive joy. “I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth.” 3 John 4. “Because He is where the joy is.” (Tara Leigh Cobble)
APPLY:
Life is short but God's love for those who follow Him is big. He sets an example for us as parents that we all can follow. Have compassion as your children learn and grow. Equip them with the truth of God's incredible love for them and His desire for their obedience. Treat them as fragile and flawed but of incomparable worth in God's eyes. As we love, guide, and forgive we model His love for them. Your impact will be found generations after your place "is remembered no more."
CLOSING PRAYER:
Dear God, Your love is better than life. My lips will praise You and I will bless You and lift Your name in all the earth. I ask You to make me a faithful witness with my life that others will be drawn to follow You. Help me to parent as You parent, with compassion and steadfast love. To Your glory and for Your Name, Amen.
WORSHIP: