“He sought his father’s God and obeyed his commands instead of following the evil practices…” – 2 Chronicles 17:4 (NLT)
Abraham was an elderly man, chosen by God to become a parent and, significantly, the ‘father’ of a “great nation” (Genesis 12:1-4). God called Abraham to leave his country, his people, and his father’s household and go to a land He would show him. Abraham obeyed ‘the call.’ Obedience is crucial in the life of a father.
The Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying He would bless and grant him great favour. Friends, God was faithful to Abraham and indeed blessed him in his old age with a son after he had become disinterested. His wife, Sarah, bore a son named “Isaac,” with whom God fulfilled His covenant promise. Nothing is impossible with God!
Father Abraham also prayed to God for other people (Genesis 20:17), in spite of their circumstances. He was tested and showed that he feared God by offering Isaac as a burnt offering – Genesis 22. He had remarkable faith and obedience. What an example we can follow in this modern world!
In 2 Timothy 1:5-6 (NIV), Apostle Paul encouraged and reminded us to be faithful when he gave instructions to his co-worker Timothy: “I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.” Yes, our parents are to instill godly values in us, we are to do the same for our children, and it must continue unto eternity. Paul assured Timothy that “…the Spirit of God does not make us timid [fearful], but gives us power [and] love…” – 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV).
Parents should encourage their children to be loving, honest, obedient, and patient, like Job, and to be careful in all that they do.
Yes, the parents of the Bible taught us to strive to do the best for ourselves, our children, and our families. Consequently, the world would be a better place if we allowed God to take precedence in our lives and our homes.
It’s still not too late, parents!
Read: Psalm 103:13; Proverbs 3:12
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 102:1-11; 1 Corinthians 15:1-34; 2 Chronicles 16; 2 Chronicles 17; 2 Chronicles 18:1-27