Abba Father - The Father Knows Best

June 16, 2012 “Because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out, Abba Father. “ (Galatians 4:6) Back in the 50’s and 60’s the television cereal-type programs were all wholesome and usually taught a moral lesson. Since television was our main source of entertainment there were several we tried to watch faithfully. One was, “Father Knows Best.” The Father’s name was Jim Anderson and he was portrayed as a father who was dedicated, self-sacrificing, wise, moral, understanding and loving. Even when he failed in some way, he would quickly acknowledge his failure and make amends. He seemed to be the “perfect father” (although there is not such a person). But we have a heavenly Father Who is perfect in every way, and when we choose to accept His Son into our life, we become a “child of God,” and have the privilege of calling Him, “Abba Father,” which is an affectionate, informal term (Daddy). As His child, the yearning of our heart is for Him. As His child we desire to crawl into His lap and tell Him how much we love Him, to confess our sins to Him, to tell Him how we are hurting (although He already knows), to thank Him for all He has done for us and for how He will be there for us in the future, and to get counsel for the problems facing us (because He only has the answers). Since tomorrow is Father’s Day I want to share something good about: “How to Become A Successful Father,” by Charles Stanley “No human father is perfect. But with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Scripture, and godly mentors, a man can become a successful dad by intentionally leading his children in these areas: Spirituality – Help your children to trust in Jesus Christ as early as possible, and they’ll grow with the understanding that He is to be at the center of everything they do. Morality – In homes where honesty, purity, and loyalty are lived out, boys and girls learn to value integrity and listen to their conscience. Relationships – Teaching about love, respect, and mutual encouragement is good preparation for friendships and marriage. Vocation – Model cooperation and doing work “heartily, as to the Lord and not to men” (Col.3:23), and your children will form a healthy work ethic. Finances – Teach your kids the right way to handle money; to earn honestly, give generously, invest intelligently, save prudently, and enjoy heartily (I Tim.6:17). Authority – Unless children learn how to function properly under authority – of parents, school, church and government – rebelliousness can easily develop. Our sons and daughters notice when there’s a disconnect between our conduct and words, so setting a good example is essential. The way to build guiding principles into a child’s life is by precept (teaching) and practice (modeling). Dads, if you plant these heartily concepts in your children’s hearts, what a joy it will be to see them equipped and motivated to fulfill God’s purpose for their life." ----------------- Some will read this blog who are not fathers, but you may be an authority figure to someone, and these principles are for everyone: father, mother, grandparents, teachers, friends, boss, etc. They are timeless, practical, and essential to be a successful mentor and to leave a footprint of integrity in which others want to walk. If you have failed in the past it is never too late to start today applying these principles. Remember, you reap what you sow – if you sow godly principles some day others will “rise up and call you blessed.” Integrity will be your badge. Go for it Abba (Daddy)! “Faith of our fathers, we will love both friend and foe in all our strife. And preach thee too, as love knows how, by kindly words and virtuous life.” (Frederick W. Faber)