Week of June 17, 2022

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9, ESV)

After the death of Moses his successor Joshua was called to lead the nation of Israel into the Promised Land. The Lord spoke directly to Joshua and gave him specific instructions and encouragement. The Lord’s teaching on three separate occasions was for Joshua to be both strong and courageous! One way to be strong is in the physical sense, and most fathers have that covered but another connotation of the Lord’s command was to be strong spiritually. We may not always be able to stay physically strong but we can al stay strong mentally by continually pressing into God’s word. It is the command of our Heavenly Father to stay the course of His calling throughout our whole life. As an earthly father, do this not only for yourself but also for your children.

The Lord commanded Joshua to also be courageous. He wanted Joshua to be brave in the face of his enemies because the Lord would guide and protect him. In the same manner, God wants all Christian fathers to stay courageous and guide their families as the spiritual leader. How can we do this? First, make sure your family knows that your relationship with Jesus Christ is your number one priority. This will set an example for them to imitate later in life. Second, be open about your faith and pray with your family. Prayer reveals your dependence on God. Third, make Sunday worship your priority for your whole family. This weekly consistency will be noticed and never forgotten later in your children’s lives. Happy Father’s Day!