Today’s Devotion
Topic: A Father’s Significance
Text: 1 Corinthians 14:10
There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. Amen
Bible specifically mentions in the above scripture that there are many voices in this world, some of which are; the voice of our friends, our teachers, our relatives, etc. In our day to day lives, we will hear these voices, some of which are good, others bad. It is important however to note one voice that spurs us on to a more fulfilled life – the voice of a father.
All believers must desire to hear this special voice, be it the voice of our heavenly Father, earthly father or spiritual father. You see, many of us claim to love our heavenly Father for being always there but somehow disregard our earthly fathers. The reasons are that, they may either be irresponsible or negligent of their duties. And yes, there are some fathers who need to step up and take responsibility of their families.
However, irrespective of how good or bad our earthly fathers may appear to be, they still deserve all the respect and honour for being the vessel God chooses for our birth. Even their mistakes, actions and inactions are vital lessons that can guide the young through life. That’s how God made it.
David’s sons- Amnon and Absalom didn’t learn from their father’s mistake when he committed adultery with Bathsheba and caused the murder of her husband. Amnon raped his half-sister Tamar who was Absalom’s “full sister”. Absalom revenged by causing his Amnon’s assassination too. No wonder He (Absalom), also died by the sword. (2 Samuel chapters 11 & 13).
In Genesis 9:18-28, we see Ham informing his two older brothers about their father Noah. The patriarch was drunk and lying naked in his tent. Many of us behave like Ham today. We tend to broadcast the flaws and shortcomings of our fathers. The older sons, Shem and Japheth, on the other hand went ahead to cover the nakedness of their Father even without looking at his nakedness.
No wonder Noah, upon realising what happened after waking up from the effect of the wine, blessed Shem and Japheth but cursed Ham. We must do our best to overlook the flaws of our fathers and rather cover the shame of it where we can. The voice of the Father can both bless and curse, we must honour them to attract blessings not curses.
We really must recognise the spiritual authority conferred upon fathers by God for our blessings. Give them reverence even when you think they do not deserve it. Everyone’s father has been anointed for them. Yes! Your father’s voice (words) has been anointed for you personally.
Remember, a wise son heeds his father’s instruction, but a mocker does not listen to rebuke. (Pro 13:1)
Begin to pray now. Ask the Lord to help you forgive your earthly father if he has ever hurt you in any way. Pray also for all fathers, they are heads of families and must raise their children to be “useful” to God and country.
Pray for your spiritual father or pastor as well; like Timothy, you may just need a Paul to guide you through your walk with the Lord.
Finally tell those who see themselves as fatherless that no one actually is. Our earthly or spiritual fathers may pass on or disappoint us, but our heavenly Father never does. He is a faithful Father! HE PROMISES NEVER TO LEAVE NOR FORSAKE YOU.
Happy Fathers’ Day to all actual and potential Fathers.
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