Written by Sis. Stacy-Ann Wilson
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. ”
Fathers play a vital role in shaping how their children see the world and to help them understand right from wrong. Throughout the bible, the roles of fathers are extremely important. The bible instructs us on the way in which we should bring up a child. Additionally, fathers are tasked with the responsibility to instill in their children, the importance of having a relationship with God.
The love that our heavenly father has for us was set in place before the foundation of the world. There is nothing we can do to change the unconditional love God has for us, however, through our sinful ways without repentance, we can fall out of grace with God.
Through Jesus Christ we are made holy and blameless; through his shed blood on Calvary, we are cleansed, and his Spirit works in the life of every believer to become more like him.
What is love? Webster defines love as: “A strong affection for another, or the object of attachment, devotion, or admiration.” Paul’s definition of love in 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 states that love is patient, love is kind, love is not envious nor boastful, proud, nor rude, love is not selfish or quick tempered, it does not keep a record of wrongdoing of others. Love believes all things, endures all things, love rejoices in the truth but not in evil. God loves you just the way you are, you did not have to work, or impress him to earn his love. For you could never earn his love through your own works, but through His grace he chose to love you. (1 John 3:1).
As explained in the book of Genesis, God made man just a little lower than the angels, when he formed the first man Adam from the dust of the earth. God was so pleased with man that he would come down in the cool of the day to commune with man, but the wicked one, the devil, beguiled the woman, hence, caused mankind to sin. God shows his fatherly love himself by coming as the second Adam to redeem his children (mankind) from sin.
There are many renowned men that are of integrity throughout the bible, that the men of today can emulate. They were an illustration of fatherly love, for ex. Abraham who was dubbed the father of many nations and was considered righteous for his faithfulness and obedience (James 2:23-24).
Our Lord Jesus Christ, our Father, our headship, our banner, our savior, our redeemer, our friend - based on his love for mankind, died a cruel death to redeem mankind unto himself. What Love! What wondrous Love, that God would love sinners such as us. How wonderful is such a love like this!
As we celebrate and appreciate our earthly fathers, let us never forget our heavenly father who sacrificed himself for us.
God Bless you all! Happy Father’s Day!