Modeling A Fisherman?s Faith
** What are you modeling for your family? : http://talk.thelife.com/2006/06/08/modeling-a-fisherman’s-faith
Please open your BIble and read:
(Matthew 4: 21 – 22)
Matthew?s gospel would not have mentioned James and John?s father so often if he were not a significant influence. Consider how Zebedee?s vocation allowed him to model fatherly attributes – and how modern dads might follow his example.
A fisherman must be courageous. The Sea of Galilee is a dangerous body of water, where squalls build quickly and rage terribly. Life can be like that, too – one moment calm and then churning with a painful storm. Backing off when a situation becomes uncomfortable or giving up when we do not like how events are progressing teaches our kids to be quitters. But dads who put their trust in the Lord can face tough times with courage.
A fisherman must be decisive. Good timing is important in fishing and essential in life. Fathers are wise to model prayerfulness and thoughtful planning, but kids must also see us follow through and make a decision. One issue over which we should never hesitate is whether or not to obey God. If we are telling our children that the Lord is good and trustworthy, we ought to be backing up our words with decisive obedience.
A fisherman must be patient. No schedule exists for when fish will give themselves up to a hook or net. In our rushed, instant – everything world, we forget the importance of patience. But we cannot predict God?s schedule, either, and parents are wise to show their sons and daughters how to wait upon Him.
Godly children follow the example of a godly father. What are you modeling for your family?
About the Author
This devotional was written by Dr Charles Stanley. Read more about him here: http://www.talk.thelife.com/charles-stanley/
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http://www.mentodayonline.com/family/dadshapedhole.html
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As a father of three grown children I am now very much aware of the impact a father has on his children; especially when they are in that pre-teen stage and often openly immitate their father. I am now consciously trying to be involved in the lives of our grandchildren by developing a relationship with them and being a good model for them. I was reminded again not long ago about how children watch us and imitate us. One of our garndsons was putting salt on his food. He held the salt shaker over his food and tapped it with is index finger just the way I do! It was a reminder again to make sure my actions back my words (1 Thessalonians 1:4-7).