Men of God (Father’s Day)

Which came first: Mother’s Day or Father’s Day? If you guessed, Mother’s Day you are correct. Mother’s Day became a commercial holiday in 1908 when the John Wanamaker department store in Philadelphia held a service dedicated to mothers. In 1909, “45 states observed the day, and in 1914, President Woodrow Wilson approved a resolution that made the second Sunday in May a holiday in honor of ‘that tender, gentle army, the mothers of America.’”FOOTNOTE: Footnote With the success of Mother’s Day, a campaign to recognize Father’s Day began but did not meet with as much success as Mother’s Day. One florist hilariously explained, “fathers haven’t the same sentimental appeal that mothers have.”[1] Father’s Day, while celebrated in various ways over the years, was not designated as a federal holiday until President Richard Nixon signed a proclamation in 1972.

Speak of Christ

A godly man speaks often of Christ. The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5:11, “encourage one another and build each other up as you are already doing.” Fathers, one of your primary responsibilities is to build up others around you and not tear them down. Proverbs 27:17 says, “Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” What comes out of your mouth? Is it godly?

Walk with Christ

A godly man walks closely with Christ. Every man has a hero. When I was younger I wanted to be just like my favorite baseball player Don Mattingly. I would try to imitate him when I played. Who is your hero? Who do you want to be like? How about walking closely with the One who sacrificed Himself for you? Jesus is the hero of the story and He calls you to be with Him.

Go for Christ

A godly man goes anywhere for Christ. What are your priorities? What does your bank account and your daily schedule reveal about your priorities? If there is anything you have refused to do that God has asked you to do, you have a big problem on your hands. You have told God, in your refusal, that your desires and preferences are more important than His mission. Tell God ‘Yes’ to anything and everything He asks you to do. Commit to going anywhere and doing anything in His name first, then wait for Him to guide your steps.

Lead to Christ

A godly man leads his family and others to Christ. What do you remember about your father? Grandfather? What about your Great-Grandfather? What legacy did they leave you? What legacy do you want to leave for your family? You should make it your legacy to speak often of Christ, walking closing with Christ, going anywhere for Christ and leading others to Christ. Make time for your family. Let them have your undivided attention. Let them know that Christ is your greatest delight. Tell them about Him, but don’t forget to show them as well.

[1] https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/fathers-day