Word Wednesday: Fathers and Priests

1 Peter 2:9
But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye  should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light

As believers we are all called to be priests and show forth the praises of the one who has saved us but I want to speak specifically to Fathers today and the awesome responsibility we have in the home.  The Old Testament priests were the mediators between God and man and as such they were responsible for revealing God to the people and interceding on behalf of the people to God.  As Christian Fathers we are to take on the same responsibilities in the home
, not to lord it over those closest to us, but rather to be Christ's representative to the family.  Fathers there are little eyes watching and little ears listening in search of guidance, strength, and as an example of what a true and living faith looks like.  

Men, we have a God-given role to fulfill and it includes:

1. Doing as you say.  We should live our lives so that our example will far out live us. Deuteronomy 6:1-2 instructs us to keep His commandments and it will bless not only us but our children and grandchildren.
2. We are to diligently teach them at all times, when rising up and setting down, when in the home or out and about ( Duet. 6:6-7 ) Apply Scripture to the little lessons we learn in life so that our children may build upon them.
3. Do it when they are young ( Prov. 22:6 ).  What they learn when young will stay with them and will bear fruit later in life.
4. We are not to provoke them to wrath but rather to admonish and nurture them in the things of the Lord ( Eph 6:4 ).  Do not be unnecessarily harsh or unfair in discipline.  Discipline should be used to steer them to God and not as an outlet for our frustrations.
5. We are to give thanks in all things ( Eph 5:20 ).  Our attitudes during the trials of life will leave an indelible impression upon the lives of our children.  Are you thankful or a complainer?

Fathers, live the faith you proclaim in front of your children and let them know that although we are not perfect there is grace and forgiveness to be received from our Father in Heaven who is merciful and the giver of every good gift.  

Love your children like your life depended on it because theirs does.

Father in Heaven, Thank you for your love and forgiveness and allowing us the awesome responsibility of being priests in our homes.  Help us to dutifully and lovingly fulfill this role and to love, train, and show our little ones the truth about who you are.

Amen.