Know the God of Your Father

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David challenged Solomon in I Chronicles 28:9, “And you, my son Solomon, acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind…” (NIV). David would soon die and was preparing his son to assume rule of the nation. The dying king understood the future of the family and of the nation depended on his son’s devotion to God.

David’s challenge implied that Solomon knew that his father served the Lord. Despite his flaws and moral failures, David made it clear to his family that his devotion was to the God of Israel, the Creator of all. In a land that served many gods, Solomon knew whom his father served. Solomon didn’t stand at his father’s grave confused about his father’s faith.

How comfortable would you be today challenging your family to serve the god you serve? Would there be enough evidence by the way you have lived to give your children assurance that Jesus Christ is your Lord? Will there be any confusion at your graveside on behalf of your kids as to what you believe and whom you have served? David’s words convict me in at least three ways.

First, his words challenge me to care enough about my children to pass along my faith. Though both parents have responsibility for spiritual training in the home – and thank God for godly mothers – the father needs to be the spiritual leader of his family. The Bible declares, “Fathers, don’t stir up anger in your children, but bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4, HCSB). As uncomfortable as it might be, fathers are shaping the faith of their children every day they live.

Second, his words challenge me to serve the Lord now with my whole heart. Am I serving the Lord Jesus with “wholehearted devotion?” The phrase “half-hearted effort” is easy to understand and easy to accomplish. Jesus was clear that His followers must be all in when it comes to following Him. Kids are perceptive and can tell when your whole heart belongs to God. Aspire to serve Christ in front of your family with wholehearted devotion!

Third, his words challenge me to serve the Lord willingly. Following the Lord Jesus should never be a burden. Serving Christ should happen with an attitude of joy and excitement. God wants our homes to be filled with praise that comes from hearts that overflow with joy. A joyful faith is a contagious faith.

As we celebrate Father’s Day this coming Sunday, may God stir our hearts as dads and granddads to leave a clear witness to our family of our devotion to Christ Jesus. May we be able to say without hesitation, “Serve the Lord as you have seen me serve the Lord.” God bless you, fathers.