FAITHFULWORD.ORG | TEACHINGS

Ephesians 6:4; Proverbs 20:7; 23:22-26; II Timothy 3:16; Deuteronomy 6:4-25; 34:7-12; Psalm 45:1; Proverbs 17:6; Philippians 4:8, 9

In Ephesians, we read instructions to fathers. Men are the ministers of their families first and foremost. That is how God designed the family to work. They are to represent the authority and integrity of God’s Word, and they also need to be loving with their wives and children. Godly fathers are to be men of steel and velvet. Fathers “in the Lord” will not only speak of, but will demonstrate the profitability of living God’s way — they teach both in word and by example.

Proverbs 20:7 contains a wonderful promise regarding men of integrity and how their children bless their lives. Integrity is something a godly man possesses in his heart and is not a façade. It is on the inside. Honesty, purity, love, commitment, truth and courage are all qualities that make a man godly. We need godly men in our families and churches today who will stand for and speak truth, pray and humble themselves. When we have individuals like this in our society, we can have great anticipation of the generations to come, rather than trepidation and questions!

Children learn how to live a godly life-style through verbal instruction, but also by observation. God designed the family relationship for the man to be the head of the household; therefore, the final responsibility of raising the children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord’s is the man.’s Disciplined training includes doctrine, reproof and correction which are all part of instruction in righteousness. The word “instruction” contained in II Timothy 3:6 is the same Greek word used for “nurture” in Ephesians. The goal of instruction in righteousness is to provide education by cultivating the mind so an individual’s morals and virtues are based on right believing. The end result is the proper conduct which becomes manifest in daily living.

God instructed Moses to teach the children of Israel to teach their children and children’s children regarding God. As a man’s father passed on his wisdom and knowledge, so that man could then pass it on to his own children. They were instructed to meditate in the Word and share it with their children. God’s deliverance and blessings were real to these people. Moses taught Joshua as though he were his own son. He fathered him in the faith. Men today have the opportunity to have this type of impact upon the generations following them. It just takes planning. Children need to see the image of God in their earthly fathers and father figures. “Tell Me and I Might Forget; Show Me and I May Remember; Involve Me and I’m Sure to Understand.” We can be grateful to all the fathers and father-figures who have poured God’s goodness and truth into our lives.