Introduction:
We live in society where the role of father is being deemphasized. Inadequacies & shortcomings of the father’s role are highlighted & stressed in pop culture. Could the moral decay going on be due to the fact that significant numbers of fathers are either physically or spiritually absent in the lives of their children? I would like to encourage every father here to realize just how important you are. Realize how serious your role is – you are the leader of your family. Realize how much you have been blessed by God – w/a family; job; and promise of eternal life.
I. Scripture presents us w/a clear picture of the peril of absentee fatherhood.
Samuel 1 Sam. 1:11; 3:1-19 Provided significant godly leadership in Israel.
1. Israel wanted a king was because his sons were evil – 1 Sam. 8:3, 5.
David - A man after God’s own heart.
Had numerous wives & concubines. Many children.
Numerous things distracting him. It could be said that David was an absentee father.
The result of David’s absenteeism:
2 Sam. 13 – David’s son Amnon rapes his sister Tamar.
Eventually Absalom had Amnon assassinated. (13:24-39)
2 Sam. 15 – Absalom tried to overthrow the throne of David.
1 Kings 1-2 - On David’s deathbed – Adonijah tries to take the throne by force
Solomon’s son Rehoboam was destroyed by greed, arrogance, unwise decisions.
II. What is a successful father?
A successful father loves his children. Eph. 6:4; Col. 3:21
Successful fathers seek influence – not control.
He realizes that he can live as a positive force in the hearts of his children – even after he dies.
Successful fathers have their spiritual lives in order.
The father is the spiritual leader of the family.
We need men like Joshua who decisively determine that they will serve the Lord. – Josh 24:14-24; esp. 14-15.
God will not accept excuse making for not fulfilling His plan in your life!
Successful fathers are men of dedication.
Make the commitment to be God’s kind of person! Gal. 2:20
Be dedicated to God’s plan. Be dedicated to God’s people.
Successful fathers are men of decision.
Live your life so it will not be a life full of regret.
How many opportunities have been lost because of indecision?
Make the decision NOW to:
a) LEARN the word of God – Psa. 119:9-10
b) LOVE the word of God – Psa. 119:11, 47, 97, 140
c) LIVE the word of God – Psa. 119:17
Successful fathers are men of destiny – Phil. 4:9
Conclusion:
Develop the willingness to learn to be a better father in the same manner you want your children to be better sons and daughters.