FATHERS

DAY 1

I started off writing this devotional like most things I start doing, having no clue where it would end up. I just started putting the pen to the paper and prayed that it would all make sense. I prayed that somehow, someway, I’m not getting in the way of what God is doing, but instead, we are dancing together. 

I had the same feelings when I went to write with a buddy awhile back. We have written many songs together and were hoping to get another cool tune. We started talking about family, which led to me reflecting on recently becoming a dad of four. As we were talking, it hit me that I really wanted to write a tune to remind my kids of my love, but even more, where that love comes from. As we were writing, my dad called to let me know that my pawpaw was headed to the hospital and it didn’t look good. So now I, a dad, get a call from my dad about his dad nearing the end of his life. Now my mind is spinning and I am thinking, “Okay, God, this song is more important than ever. Please help me do it justice.” The second verse of the song says:

Time won’t slow down

I won’t always be around

To listen to your worries

And hold you when you’re hurting

So let me point you the one

Who’s with you till it’s done

Take his hand, he won’t let go

Gave his life to bring you home

I finished the song that day and was able to head to the hospital right after. I made it in time to play the song to my pawpaw before he passed away. It was a great reminder to him that he was about to get to meet the Creator of love. I am thankful to have a great dad (and mother!!! I know, I know this is about Fathers… but I’m writing it so whatever), who has always pointed me to Jesus. I continue to push myself to do the same for my kids. There are a million books about parenting and being a dad, but as I grow as a parent, I continue to learn that no one has it all figured out.

There is not enough we can do to make yourself feel better about the time missed. There are not enough presents to give to make up for the times we react in anger. Truly, our only hope is Jesus and pointing our kids to Him! As fathers, it is our responsibility to love well, but to also remind our kids that we are all messed up and are in need of Jesus.

Practice: 

As you walk through this next week, remind yourself of these scriptures:

The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him! -Proverbs 20:7 ESV

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. - Ephesians 6:4 ESV

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. - Proverbs 22:6 NIV