WEBVTT 00:00:00.000 --> 00:00:08.080 Dads, and you know, I want to understand that honoring is more than a gift, or even an expression of appreciation. 00:00:08.080 --> 00:00:15.500 ! It's great to be appreciated, but the respect for the responsibilities of dad is also needed. 00:00:16.240 --> 00:00:25.679 You know, it goes both ways in that to understand the roles and the things and needs of fatherhood, 00:00:25.679 --> 00:00:32.939 because fatherhood is a role that's both, I think we can all agree for all the dads, it's very challenging sometimes, 00:00:33.780 --> 00:00:35.359 but it's also very rewarding. 00:00:36.859 --> 00:00:42.780 You know, and the one thing, it doesn't take long to learn in life that things that have great challenge often come with great reward. 00:00:44.100 --> 00:00:54.379 You know, the accomplishment that we have there, and when we see those things taking place as our children grow and they mature in life, 00:00:54.380 --> 00:00:59.800 and you see them become even parents, you know, now as a grandparent, I look at some of those things differently, you know. 00:00:59.800 --> 00:01:08.219 You look and see that what you have invested in as a father, because fatherhood is not an investment in the present, 00:01:08.359 --> 00:01:09.579 it's an investment in the future. 00:01:10.620 --> 00:01:16.680 It's an investment in those things to come, both in this life and the next. 00:01:16.780 --> 00:01:20.260 The things we invest in as a father are important. 00:01:20.260 --> 00:01:25.240 But, you know, the role of fathers in society has definitely changed over time. 00:01:26.020 --> 00:01:35.640 You know, the expectation society does, they prioritize things sometimes, trying to get us to get things out of balance, 00:01:36.820 --> 00:01:44.100 and not balancing life correctly, and sometimes with work and family, or between protecting and providing, 00:01:44.099 --> 00:01:50.239 or even sometimes, you know, honestly, sometimes dads feel inadequate to accomplish the responsibilities. 00:01:51.759 --> 00:01:55.659 You know, sometimes you don't want to consider that, but oftentimes dads don't feel like, 00:01:55.719 --> 00:01:58.780 hey, I know what I need, I don't know how to handle this right now. 00:01:59.819 --> 00:02:03.719 I don't know what, how am I going to accomplish those things at this moment. 00:02:03.719 --> 00:02:13.780 And we can feel inadequate, or charting a path through those expectations that you have between work and family and church, 00:02:14.020 --> 00:02:16.639 and all these things that we're responsible for. 00:02:17.960 --> 00:02:25.240 You know, it's quite a job to navigate all those things and those relationships that we have. 00:02:25.240 --> 00:02:33.520 And oftentimes, I think these can lead to a dad being frustrated, or we find even lead to anger or impatience very easily. 00:02:34.320 --> 00:02:35.879 You know, you can become frustrated. 00:02:36.520 --> 00:02:42.600 But fatherhood, I want you to understand, is not without some help and guidance to accomplish it. 00:02:43.379 --> 00:02:47.860 You know, God never gives us a task that he doesn't give us instruction on how to walk through it. 00:02:48.820 --> 00:02:50.840 You know, that's the great thing about God. 00:02:50.939 --> 00:02:53.200 God doesn't just give us a lofty goal. 00:02:53.199 --> 00:03:00.159 He says, this is the objective, and now here's the tools to implement to make that happen. 00:03:00.819 --> 00:03:04.560 To put those things, but to use those tools is sometimes difficult. 00:03:05.560 --> 00:03:11.159 Because like anything, if you're building anything, balance of what tools to use at the right time is important. 00:03:12.319 --> 00:03:14.819 Because, you know, you can't use a saw to drive a nail. 00:03:15.159 --> 00:03:18.039 I mean, that's the reality of sometimes we feel frustrated, 00:03:18.039 --> 00:03:22.159 and sometimes we try to use the wrong tool to accomplish the task. 00:03:23.199 --> 00:03:26.419 And today we're going to look at fatherhood here a little bit, 00:03:26.459 --> 00:03:31.979 because God does give us information on leading your family, 00:03:32.419 --> 00:03:35.119 and you're raising your children. 00:03:35.319 --> 00:03:37.639 It requires wisdom and perseverance. 00:03:38.939 --> 00:03:42.299 And we're going to see here this morning, if you found Ephesians chapter 6, 00:03:42.379 --> 00:03:47.299 we'll read the first four verses if you want to stand together and honor a reading of the Word of God this morning. 00:03:47.300 --> 00:03:52.300 As we find here, because this passage really lays out a balance here 00:03:52.300 --> 00:03:56.719 when it comes to fatherhood and our families. 00:03:56.860 --> 00:03:58.460 Because notice in verse 1 here, it says, 00:03:58.460 --> 00:04:17.100 Heavenly Father, as we come before you today, Lord, we just thank you for our dads, 00:04:17.100 --> 00:04:28.760 and Lord, for each dad here today. 00:04:29.320 --> 00:04:31.420 Lord, those that one day hope to be dads. 00:04:31.600 --> 00:04:37.379 Lord, it's just a role that doesn't begin at the moment that you become a dad, 00:04:37.379 --> 00:04:41.180 but Lord, it lays the groundwork even before in our life. 00:04:41.259 --> 00:04:43.279 The things we learn from our own fathers, 00:04:43.600 --> 00:04:47.300 and things that we learn from your Word, Lord, as we gather through. 00:04:47.439 --> 00:04:50.240 Lord, as we honor dads today, Lord, 00:04:50.279 --> 00:04:54.300 we just pray for each one for the challenges that life brings, 00:04:54.379 --> 00:04:56.699 and trying to balance these things. 00:04:56.740 --> 00:04:58.600 Even as we look at some things today, Lord, 00:04:58.680 --> 00:05:01.680 but Lord, we also just ask you to encourage dads today. 00:05:02.519 --> 00:05:04.159 Lord, we need to be encouraged, Lord, 00:05:04.160 --> 00:05:06.939 that you didn't give us a task that's impossible, 00:05:07.140 --> 00:05:10.600 but you gave us a task that may be challenging and difficult. 00:05:11.360 --> 00:05:15.980 But Lord, it's a task that can be accomplished through the guidance of your Word. 00:05:16.080 --> 00:05:21.440 And Lord, as we seek you and rely upon you for direction in those things. 00:05:21.520 --> 00:05:24.040 And Lord, we just give you all the praise in Jesus' name. 00:05:24.780 --> 00:05:25.180 Amen. 00:05:25.480 --> 00:05:25.980 May be seated. 00:05:27.080 --> 00:05:28.520 You know, as we look here this morning, 00:05:28.520 --> 00:05:33.600 because Ephesians does give us some guidance for children and parents, 00:05:34.160 --> 00:05:36.700 you know, the term used here for father, 00:05:36.860 --> 00:05:39.560 it has an implication of moms attached to it. 00:05:39.580 --> 00:05:42.680 And I think that's a natural inclination in Scripture, 00:05:42.960 --> 00:05:45.400 that dad and mom stand together. 00:05:45.540 --> 00:05:49.180 But as we read earlier last week in Ephesians 5, 00:05:49.320 --> 00:05:54.980 dads have a unique responsibility of headship and leadership within the family. 00:05:55.900 --> 00:05:58.000 And so when it talks about fathers, 00:05:58.000 --> 00:06:00.080 fathers, you need to oversight these things. 00:06:00.079 --> 00:06:03.399 But this is also, this morning, some of the things we talk about 00:06:03.399 --> 00:06:08.579 are something for moms to pay attention to also and to deal with. 00:06:08.639 --> 00:06:11.779 Because as a parent, we can all get caught up in these things. 00:06:12.300 --> 00:06:14.199 We can provoke our children 00:06:14.199 --> 00:06:21.459 and make it difficult for them to do their part in honoring their parents. 00:06:22.000 --> 00:06:23.259 To do those things. 00:06:23.259 --> 00:06:25.300 But these instructions to fathers 00:06:25.300 --> 00:06:32.459 divulge their unique role in shaping their children's spiritual and mental maturity. 00:06:33.399 --> 00:06:34.300 You know, I want you to understand, 00:06:34.439 --> 00:06:39.579 our role today as dads is not just to raise up kids and get them out of the house. 00:06:41.339 --> 00:06:44.199 Now, that might be an objective, but that's not the goal. 00:06:44.560 --> 00:06:46.039 You know, as a dad, I think every dad says, 00:06:46.139 --> 00:06:49.980 I want to see my kids grow up and mature and be able to step out on their own. 00:06:49.980 --> 00:06:54.960 That's a sign of maturity to be able to do that. 00:06:55.400 --> 00:06:58.800 But the goal is not just to leave, just not for them to leave the house. 00:06:58.900 --> 00:07:05.220 The goal is to equip them and train them for what they need when they are out on their own. 00:07:05.660 --> 00:07:09.700 To be able to navigate the challenges of life. 00:07:09.900 --> 00:07:13.160 And today we're going to take a few moments here this morning 00:07:13.160 --> 00:07:16.700 to even look at these things of encouragements to dad 00:07:16.700 --> 00:07:18.980 in their biblical responsibilities. 00:07:18.980 --> 00:07:25.540 Not only to know, but to fulfill what I really think is a very high calling in their lives. 00:07:26.020 --> 00:07:27.900 Because being a dad is important. 00:07:28.640 --> 00:07:30.560 You know, it doesn't take much looking at statistics 00:07:30.560 --> 00:07:34.800 to see the importance of dad's role in the life of children. 00:07:35.700 --> 00:07:37.300 The impact is great. 00:07:37.439 --> 00:07:40.740 It's lifelong impacts in the life of a child 00:07:40.740 --> 00:07:42.420 with the picture they have of their father. 00:07:43.160 --> 00:07:46.100 And we're going to see and look at this a little bit this morning. 00:07:46.100 --> 00:07:48.800 But look here in verse 4 in our text here. 00:07:48.900 --> 00:07:49.140 It says, 00:07:49.480 --> 00:07:53.920 And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath. 00:07:54.020 --> 00:07:55.640 Provoke them not to wrath. 00:07:56.560 --> 00:07:58.640 You know, the challenge of being a parent, 00:07:58.780 --> 00:08:01.379 the constant expectations, the responsibilities. 00:08:02.280 --> 00:08:05.780 I mean, as a dad, you're supposed to care and provide for your children. 00:08:05.779 --> 00:08:10.919 You know, and sometimes the way kids act and all the things going on in life, 00:08:10.979 --> 00:08:11.899 you can get frustrated. 00:08:11.899 --> 00:08:17.539 I mean, life can be frustrating because you're trying to do what you know to do, 00:08:17.599 --> 00:08:19.539 but it's not working out the way you thought it would. 00:08:20.500 --> 00:08:22.060 You know, it can be frustrating. 00:08:22.259 --> 00:08:24.099 And kids, kids can be frustrating. 00:08:25.699 --> 00:08:27.859 You know, and it's not just when they're young. 00:08:28.060 --> 00:08:29.819 You know, I often tell parents, you know, 00:08:29.879 --> 00:08:31.979 they get, when they have little ones running around, 00:08:32.059 --> 00:08:36.879 it can be a lot of energy and a lot of consumption of physical energy. 00:08:36.879 --> 00:08:40.759 But, you know, as kids get older and you start training them up, 00:08:40.820 --> 00:08:44.460 sometimes you can get frustrated with just the reactions 00:08:44.460 --> 00:08:46.639 and their responses as they grow. 00:08:47.860 --> 00:08:51.500 You know, these are things that are naturally occurring. 00:08:51.700 --> 00:08:55.299 It's just, it's not just a one-time thing. 00:08:55.379 --> 00:08:58.539 Okay, I do this one thing, and they're going to turn out right. 00:08:58.600 --> 00:09:02.679 I want you to understand what we're talking about here is a long-term investment. 00:09:03.379 --> 00:09:04.580 It takes time. 00:09:04.700 --> 00:09:05.340 It takes energy. 00:09:05.340 --> 00:09:06.720 It takes consistency. 00:09:06.879 --> 00:09:10.500 It takes energy in our lives because sometimes I want you to understand, 00:09:10.620 --> 00:09:12.039 even if you're doing what's right, 00:09:12.720 --> 00:09:14.679 your kids are not going to be happy with it. 00:09:16.259 --> 00:09:17.799 Matter of fact, I'll put it this way. 00:09:17.919 --> 00:09:20.600 If your kids are always happy with your decisions as a parent, 00:09:20.700 --> 00:09:22.179 you're probably doing something wrong as a parent. 00:09:22.399 --> 00:09:24.419 If they're always happy with everything, 00:09:24.620 --> 00:09:27.500 there's probably something wrong because you're probably indulging them. 00:09:27.740 --> 00:09:30.539 And it's not our job to indulge our children. 00:09:31.759 --> 00:09:35.419 It's our job to train them and correct them and instruct them. 00:09:36.879 --> 00:09:39.000 To prepare them. 00:09:39.879 --> 00:09:41.220 To equip them. 00:09:41.220 --> 00:09:46.440 You know, sometimes you're not always happy with those that are trying to accomplish those goals 00:09:46.440 --> 00:09:53.320 because it pushes into your life in a way that challenges your children. 00:09:53.480 --> 00:09:57.600 You ought to be, your children ought to feel challenged from some things in life. 00:09:57.840 --> 00:10:00.940 But I want you to understand here that what he's talking about here, 00:10:00.940 --> 00:10:04.540 not provoking your children to wrath, we're not talking about a one-time event. 00:10:04.539 --> 00:10:09.480 Because like I said, parents are, your kids are sometimes not going to be happy with you. 00:10:10.299 --> 00:10:14.379 Because wrath is not just upset with a one-time thing. 00:10:15.299 --> 00:10:19.559 Wrath that it's speaking about here is anger mingled with contempt. 00:10:21.199 --> 00:10:22.740 That's a whole different thing. 00:10:22.740 --> 00:10:29.440 That's a long-term effect with many inputs impacting it. 00:10:30.539 --> 00:10:36.279 It has to do with a philosophy and a practice that a parent uses. 00:10:37.560 --> 00:10:39.860 And to grab a hold of that because, you know, 00:10:41.240 --> 00:10:46.980 the dynamics of this, sometimes this happens when we're being too harsh or even inconsistent. 00:10:46.980 --> 00:10:52.960 You know, it's easy for parents sometimes to be constantly nitpicking every fault 00:10:52.960 --> 00:10:56.639 to the point the child becomes frustrated and resentful. 00:10:57.519 --> 00:10:59.560 Because it's like, what can I do right? 00:10:59.899 --> 00:11:01.420 You know, that's what it's talking about here. 00:11:01.440 --> 00:11:09.600 We have to be careful what we're speaking of to understand how we need to address these things. 00:11:09.600 --> 00:11:16.639 Because as we understand that they can become resentful and wrathful, the Bible tells us, 00:11:16.980 --> 00:11:20.759 God tells us that that's not the way for your children to mature. 00:11:22.159 --> 00:11:25.779 You know, we find a lot of children that harbor a lot of things from their childhood. 00:11:27.580 --> 00:11:31.279 Now, I want you to understand one thing, especially for parents. 00:11:31.600 --> 00:11:32.580 I'll give you a clue. 00:11:32.659 --> 00:11:34.019 You're not going to do everything right. 00:11:35.440 --> 00:11:35.759 Okay? 00:11:36.720 --> 00:11:39.200 But, you know, God even makes provision for that. 00:11:39.200 --> 00:11:41.840 It's called confession and forgiveness. 00:11:41.840 --> 00:11:50.379 God gives us tools to deal with those things if they're used in the right way. 00:11:51.259 --> 00:11:52.740 But you know what part of the problem is? 00:11:52.960 --> 00:11:57.720 We leave those tools on the wayside because pride and other things get in the way. 00:11:58.840 --> 00:12:03.180 To be able to grab a hold of what we need to do in our life. 00:12:03.179 --> 00:12:10.399 And oftentimes we'll see things come to this point or even be driven to this point from one thing 00:12:10.399 --> 00:12:15.079 because we try to fix everything at one time instead of keeping perspective in the moment. 00:12:16.899 --> 00:12:17.199 You know? 00:12:17.379 --> 00:12:21.219 If there's an issue of disobedience or defiance or disregard, 00:12:22.120 --> 00:12:25.839 one of the things I'd encourage you is to take a moment to consider 00:12:25.839 --> 00:12:28.099 what's the one key thing I need to address? 00:12:28.199 --> 00:12:30.339 Because sometimes you can't fix it all at one time. 00:12:30.340 --> 00:12:33.680 But if you address the big issue, 00:12:34.500 --> 00:12:37.899 you'll find oftentimes the smaller issues take care of themselves. 00:12:38.320 --> 00:12:41.780 But that takes some intention on the part of the parent, doesn't it? 00:12:42.519 --> 00:12:47.420 It takes some intention on our part as the mature one. 00:12:48.820 --> 00:12:50.780 You know, let me say this. 00:12:50.899 --> 00:12:53.320 Parents, don't be surprised when your kids act immature. 00:12:54.580 --> 00:12:56.900 That's the reason you're supposed to equip them to mature. 00:12:57.259 --> 00:12:59.900 That's the reason the Bible says when you're a child, 00:12:59.899 --> 00:13:01.199 you do childish things. 00:13:02.899 --> 00:13:05.679 But when you grow up, you ought to put those things away. 00:13:06.519 --> 00:13:07.740 How do they put them away? 00:13:07.840 --> 00:13:08.500 They mature. 00:13:09.659 --> 00:13:12.100 They understand what's taking place. 00:13:12.279 --> 00:13:13.840 And we find here, you know, 00:13:14.139 --> 00:13:16.679 I'd encourage you if you're dealing with those things, 00:13:16.799 --> 00:13:19.220 look for what is the key lesson that needs dealt with. 00:13:19.279 --> 00:13:22.039 What's the most important thing at that moment 00:13:22.039 --> 00:13:23.600 and deal with the one thing. 00:13:23.600 --> 00:13:27.639 And that way it's not overwhelming to you 00:13:27.639 --> 00:13:29.379 and it's not overwhelming to your children. 00:13:31.519 --> 00:13:34.240 Try to deal with those things in perspective 00:13:34.240 --> 00:13:35.240 because secondly, 00:13:36.040 --> 00:13:37.159 first is perspective, 00:13:37.300 --> 00:13:38.139 second is timing. 00:13:39.399 --> 00:13:40.720 You know, I think sometimes as parents, 00:13:40.820 --> 00:13:42.639 we get in trouble because we don't understand 00:13:42.639 --> 00:13:45.259 when is the right time to deal with something. 00:13:45.259 --> 00:13:48.899 The right time is important. 00:13:49.220 --> 00:13:50.299 If you ask, 00:13:50.860 --> 00:13:51.939 this is the, 00:13:52.120 --> 00:13:53.360 you need to ask yourself, 00:13:53.480 --> 00:13:56.159 is this the time we need to address this issue 00:13:56.159 --> 00:13:58.200 or do I need to pause? 00:13:59.539 --> 00:14:01.639 Do I need to step back for a moment? 00:14:02.960 --> 00:14:04.559 That might be five minutes. 00:14:04.659 --> 00:14:05.639 It might be a day. 00:14:06.860 --> 00:14:09.279 Depending on the situation and the circumstance 00:14:09.279 --> 00:14:10.379 because you say, 00:14:10.460 --> 00:14:12.419 preacher, why should I just dive in? 00:14:12.419 --> 00:14:13.199 Because some things, 00:14:13.279 --> 00:14:15.439 yes, you need to dive in and deal with immediately. 00:14:17.199 --> 00:14:18.019 There's some things, 00:14:18.079 --> 00:14:19.620 if there's immediate danger, 00:14:20.019 --> 00:14:21.659 you better get after it right now. 00:14:22.279 --> 00:14:23.139 It's the same reason 00:14:23.139 --> 00:14:24.860 if there's a hot pot on the stove, 00:14:24.959 --> 00:14:25.799 you don't let your kids say, 00:14:25.959 --> 00:14:27.120 oh, let them grab ahold of it. 00:14:27.139 --> 00:14:27.919 They'll figure it out. 00:14:28.179 --> 00:14:29.379 We'll talk about it tomorrow. 00:14:31.319 --> 00:14:32.979 That's foolishness because why? 00:14:33.059 --> 00:14:34.539 There's an immediate danger 00:14:34.539 --> 00:14:37.099 that needs dealt with. 00:14:37.939 --> 00:14:41.159 An immediate dynamic that needs to be addressed 00:14:41.159 --> 00:14:43.240 and sometimes those things are, 00:14:43.339 --> 00:14:45.659 but sometimes it's important to know when to step back 00:14:45.659 --> 00:14:48.179 because you say, 00:14:48.240 --> 00:14:49.459 preacher, why do you need to step back? 00:14:49.779 --> 00:14:50.939 You know, sometimes as parents, 00:14:51.059 --> 00:14:53.600 we let our emotions and our feelings get in the way. 00:14:54.019 --> 00:14:56.299 One of the fastest ways to cause your children 00:14:56.299 --> 00:14:58.199 to provoke them to wrath 00:14:58.199 --> 00:14:59.959 is to discipline by emotion. 00:15:00.259 --> 00:15:02.759 You expect them to control their emotions 00:15:02.759 --> 00:15:04.179 when you can't control yours. 00:15:05.379 --> 00:15:07.319 Do you realize that's a training moment? 00:15:07.320 --> 00:15:09.540 You're displaying those things 00:15:09.540 --> 00:15:11.340 and understanding, you know, 00:15:11.400 --> 00:15:13.640 because sometimes through emotions 00:15:13.640 --> 00:15:16.300 or like sometimes parents will discipline 00:15:16.300 --> 00:15:18.640 or get upset or angry at their children 00:15:18.640 --> 00:15:20.360 because they feel embarrassed 00:15:20.360 --> 00:15:23.200 or frustrated. 00:15:24.200 --> 00:15:29.200 And they take things out of a proper perspective. 00:15:31.200 --> 00:15:32.540 You know, I want you to understand 00:15:32.540 --> 00:15:35.060 if you're not gonna provoke your children to wrath, 00:15:35.059 --> 00:15:36.879 you have to have understanding 00:15:36.879 --> 00:15:41.279 of not only yourself, but what God teaches. 00:15:43.319 --> 00:15:46.099 Because sometimes it's important to give things time 00:15:46.099 --> 00:15:47.339 and to deal with them. 00:15:47.539 --> 00:15:49.919 That's where understanding the circumstance 00:15:49.919 --> 00:15:51.119 or the situation, 00:15:52.019 --> 00:15:53.759 because provoking your children 00:15:53.759 --> 00:15:56.159 can also come through things like partiality 00:15:56.159 --> 00:15:58.799 or favoritism. 00:15:59.299 --> 00:16:00.879 Favoritism within a family, 00:16:01.219 --> 00:16:03.279 I'll say is probably one of the biggest reasons 00:16:03.279 --> 00:16:04.319 children get angry. 00:16:05.019 --> 00:16:07.139 Favoritism causes great disruption 00:16:07.139 --> 00:16:08.159 within a household. 00:16:09.299 --> 00:16:11.699 You know, look over to Genesis 37 for a moment. 00:16:12.419 --> 00:16:12.899 Because here's a, 00:16:13.100 --> 00:16:15.919 the book of Genesis is filled with family dynamics. 00:16:17.360 --> 00:16:19.659 You know, that's one thing about the book of Genesis. 00:16:19.779 --> 00:16:21.759 You have all sorts of reality 00:16:21.759 --> 00:16:23.639 of family dynamics happening. 00:16:24.259 --> 00:16:26.019 And here in Genesis 37, 00:16:26.019 --> 00:16:30.819 we'll find here that it's Jacob here 00:16:30.819 --> 00:16:32.939 dealing with his children. 00:16:33.240 --> 00:16:35.000 And if you know anything about Jacob, 00:16:35.199 --> 00:16:38.039 he had two wives, Rachel and Leah, 00:16:38.159 --> 00:16:39.899 and the two wives were at each other. 00:16:39.899 --> 00:16:42.000 And then here dad steps in 00:16:42.000 --> 00:16:44.259 and shows favoritism and partiality. 00:16:44.559 --> 00:16:44.919 And you know what? 00:16:44.939 --> 00:16:47.279 The Bible reveals exactly what happened 00:16:47.279 --> 00:16:50.639 and how those things came together 00:16:50.639 --> 00:16:53.019 in that context. 00:16:53.019 --> 00:16:55.799 Because as we look here at Genesis 37, 00:16:56.039 --> 00:16:58.220 I want you to see something very important 00:16:58.220 --> 00:16:59.460 here this morning. 00:16:59.539 --> 00:17:00.480 Look at verse three. 00:17:00.960 --> 00:17:01.379 And it says, 00:17:01.620 --> 00:17:03.360 Now Israel loved Joseph 00:17:03.360 --> 00:17:05.960 more than all his children. 00:17:07.119 --> 00:17:09.359 Because he was the son of his old age 00:17:09.359 --> 00:17:11.139 and he made him a coat of many colors. 00:17:12.539 --> 00:17:15.220 Now we don't have time to get into all the context here, 00:17:15.240 --> 00:17:16.160 but I want you to point out 00:17:16.160 --> 00:17:16.599 what was, 00:17:16.980 --> 00:17:18.180 what did Joseph do, 00:17:18.259 --> 00:17:19.539 or what did Jacob do? 00:17:19.539 --> 00:17:24.220 He let all the other children know 00:17:24.220 --> 00:17:24.720 that, hey, 00:17:24.819 --> 00:17:26.259 you're second place 00:17:26.259 --> 00:17:28.960 to Joseph. 00:17:29.299 --> 00:17:30.960 You hold second seat. 00:17:31.299 --> 00:17:32.399 You're less important. 00:17:32.819 --> 00:17:33.779 It's one of those things 00:17:33.779 --> 00:17:35.379 that Joseph can do no wrong. 00:17:35.720 --> 00:17:36.059 But you know, 00:17:36.099 --> 00:17:37.859 these other bum children I have, 00:17:38.220 --> 00:17:39.180 and I'll just say something there. 00:17:39.220 --> 00:17:40.059 If you have bum children, 00:17:40.180 --> 00:17:40.839 you know who to blame? 00:17:41.059 --> 00:17:42.240 You can go home and look in the mirror. 00:17:42.519 --> 00:17:43.899 But notice what happened here 00:17:43.899 --> 00:17:44.480 with his family. 00:17:44.579 --> 00:17:45.379 Look at verse four. 00:17:45.380 --> 00:17:47.520 And when his brethren saw 00:17:47.520 --> 00:17:49.900 that their father loved him more 00:17:49.900 --> 00:17:51.160 than all his brethren, 00:17:51.320 --> 00:17:51.920 they did what? 00:17:53.500 --> 00:17:54.660 They hated him 00:17:54.660 --> 00:17:58.920 and could not speak peaceably unto him. 00:17:59.160 --> 00:18:00.420 I think that's a good example 00:18:00.420 --> 00:18:03.700 of a parent provoking their children to wrath. 00:18:03.940 --> 00:18:04.740 Because think about, 00:18:04.840 --> 00:18:05.840 what did the brothers do? 00:18:06.060 --> 00:18:07.000 They wanted to kill him 00:18:07.000 --> 00:18:08.240 and they sold him into slavery. 00:18:09.300 --> 00:18:11.200 Told his dad that he died. 00:18:12.460 --> 00:18:13.700 Animal devoured him. 00:18:13.700 --> 00:18:15.819 And partiality provoked anger, 00:18:15.940 --> 00:18:16.259 didn't it? 00:18:16.460 --> 00:18:18.160 This partiality was also, 00:18:18.500 --> 00:18:19.100 let me just tell you, 00:18:19.140 --> 00:18:20.539 it was spurred by their moms, 00:18:20.680 --> 00:18:21.460 Leah and Rachel. 00:18:21.720 --> 00:18:24.360 There was envy and strife between them. 00:18:24.460 --> 00:18:25.460 And then when Joseph, 00:18:25.519 --> 00:18:27.100 there's already tension in the family 00:18:27.100 --> 00:18:29.460 and Joseph just puts the final nail in it 00:18:29.460 --> 00:18:30.700 by his choice. 00:18:31.080 --> 00:18:32.940 The son that he loved above others. 00:18:34.680 --> 00:18:35.940 You know, think about what it tells us 00:18:35.940 --> 00:18:37.500 also in Colossians 3. 00:18:38.200 --> 00:18:40.039 Colossians 3 in verse 21 says, 00:18:40.039 --> 00:18:42.559 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, 00:18:42.559 --> 00:18:44.779 lest they be discouraged. 00:18:45.200 --> 00:18:48.039 You know, discouragement is the precursor to wrath. 00:18:48.319 --> 00:18:50.019 We need to be careful with this, dads. 00:18:50.099 --> 00:18:53.339 We need to be deliberate to foster a respectful 00:18:53.339 --> 00:18:55.599 and loving relationship with your children. 00:18:56.519 --> 00:18:58.599 You know, be careful about actions 00:18:58.599 --> 00:19:00.599 that will provoke them to anger 00:19:00.599 --> 00:19:03.759 because of a chosen offense. 00:19:04.940 --> 00:19:07.039 You know, sometimes we choose the offense. 00:19:07.039 --> 00:19:10.339 Joseph was singled out by his father. 00:19:10.440 --> 00:19:12.079 His father chose to do it. 00:19:12.079 --> 00:19:13.220 We got to be careful 00:19:13.220 --> 00:19:15.879 and not be driven by how we feel 00:19:15.879 --> 00:19:17.599 and think about what's the impact. 00:19:17.939 --> 00:19:19.759 That's teaching our children also 00:19:19.759 --> 00:19:22.000 to control their emotion. 00:19:23.220 --> 00:19:24.819 Now, I'm not saying to be cold. 00:19:24.939 --> 00:19:26.119 That's a whole different discussion 00:19:26.119 --> 00:19:29.980 because you can be warm and under control 00:19:29.980 --> 00:19:31.659 because, you know, 00:19:31.759 --> 00:19:33.119 you can get the other side of the thing. 00:19:33.179 --> 00:19:35.139 You can be so loving that you hurt your children. 00:19:35.140 --> 00:19:39.540 I'll use that term loving in a worldly concept 00:19:39.540 --> 00:19:41.520 because it's like, oh, I love them, 00:19:41.580 --> 00:19:42.900 so they need to be able to do this. 00:19:43.000 --> 00:19:43.780 You know, they can't do what, 00:19:44.200 --> 00:19:44.980 they need to be able to do 00:19:44.980 --> 00:19:46.259 what the other kids need to do 00:19:46.259 --> 00:19:48.759 because, you know, if Joey's doing that, 00:19:48.880 --> 00:19:50.120 Sam should be able to do this. 00:19:50.460 --> 00:19:52.820 And you have, parents, you need to be careful 00:19:52.820 --> 00:19:55.000 because that's a problem also. 00:19:55.000 --> 00:19:57.480 As we're going to look here 00:19:57.480 --> 00:19:58.759 in the next section here 00:19:58.759 --> 00:20:00.740 of the command that he gives, 00:20:00.819 --> 00:20:02.460 you know, we have to consider our actions 00:20:02.460 --> 00:20:03.180 as a father. 00:20:03.420 --> 00:20:06.000 Are they building up or tearing down? 00:20:06.099 --> 00:20:07.519 But here in Ephesians 6, 00:20:07.700 --> 00:20:10.799 we find that it's not just a don't do something. 00:20:11.900 --> 00:20:13.359 Now, the one thing I find in Scripture 00:20:13.359 --> 00:20:15.160 is God will tell you don't do something 00:20:15.160 --> 00:20:16.900 and then he also tells you to do something 00:20:16.900 --> 00:20:21.220 as a replacement for that. 00:20:22.620 --> 00:20:22.920 You know what? 00:20:22.980 --> 00:20:24.820 God never wants us to be empty. 00:20:24.960 --> 00:20:26.480 He says, hey, replace this, 00:20:26.600 --> 00:20:28.759 take this out and put this in. 00:20:29.960 --> 00:20:31.340 You think about through the Scripture 00:20:31.340 --> 00:20:32.680 in our life as a believer, 00:20:32.960 --> 00:20:35.780 he tells us to put off things and put on things. 00:20:35.780 --> 00:20:38.560 He tells us that if you get rid of this, 00:20:38.620 --> 00:20:39.820 you need to put this in. 00:20:41.600 --> 00:20:42.880 Because you know what the problem is? 00:20:42.920 --> 00:20:44.140 There's not room for both. 00:20:44.140 --> 00:20:46.980 Something has to go to put something else in. 00:20:47.259 --> 00:20:49.420 In life, you don't get storage containers 00:20:49.420 --> 00:20:50.500 to put things in. 00:20:52.060 --> 00:20:53.580 Buy more, put it in storage. 00:20:55.280 --> 00:20:56.880 God says it's all you have. 00:20:58.740 --> 00:21:01.020 Something has to go to put something else. 00:21:01.360 --> 00:21:02.920 And so we're going to see here this morning, 00:21:02.920 --> 00:21:05.680 notice here in our passage here 00:21:05.680 --> 00:21:07.580 back in Ephesians chapter 6. 00:21:09.340 --> 00:21:11.320 You know, I don't want you to be discouraged anymore. 00:21:11.400 --> 00:21:12.400 I want you to be encouraged 00:21:12.400 --> 00:21:14.220 in what God has 00:21:14.220 --> 00:21:15.759 because notice what he says 00:21:15.759 --> 00:21:17.040 at the end of verse 6. 00:21:17.120 --> 00:21:17.360 He says, 00:21:18.300 --> 00:21:20.720 but bring them up 00:21:20.720 --> 00:21:23.980 in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 00:21:25.800 --> 00:21:26.660 You know, dads, 00:21:26.740 --> 00:21:28.000 we have a responsibility 00:21:28.000 --> 00:21:31.080 to nurture our kids, 00:21:31.160 --> 00:21:33.019 a responsibility to bring them up 00:21:33.019 --> 00:21:34.220 in the Lord. 00:21:34.300 --> 00:21:36.460 This is a framework that God gives us. 00:21:37.080 --> 00:21:39.080 The framework is provided to us 00:21:39.080 --> 00:21:40.040 in the Word of God. 00:21:40.039 --> 00:21:41.619 We're to lead spiritually. 00:21:41.799 --> 00:21:44.259 We're to prepare our kids for life. 00:21:44.579 --> 00:21:47.099 You know, Jesus is even an example of this also. 00:21:47.259 --> 00:21:50.119 You know, consider Luke chapter 2. 00:21:50.740 --> 00:21:52.619 Luke chapter 2 and verse 52. 00:21:52.799 --> 00:21:53.839 The Bible says this, 00:21:53.920 --> 00:21:56.460 and Jesus increased in wisdom and stature 00:21:56.460 --> 00:21:58.960 and in favor with God and man. 00:21:59.039 --> 00:21:59.519 What's it say? 00:21:59.720 --> 00:22:01.659 He matured as a complete person. 00:22:02.079 --> 00:22:03.480 Our objective as a parent 00:22:03.480 --> 00:22:05.420 ought to see our kids grow up 00:22:05.420 --> 00:22:06.500 to be complete people, 00:22:06.500 --> 00:22:07.720 to love the Lord, 00:22:07.799 --> 00:22:09.440 to understand who God is, 00:22:09.519 --> 00:22:10.839 what God has done for them. 00:22:12.099 --> 00:22:13.279 You know, in our example, 00:22:13.460 --> 00:22:14.420 especially dads, 00:22:14.519 --> 00:22:16.200 the priorities we place 00:22:16.200 --> 00:22:17.960 will directly impact 00:22:17.960 --> 00:22:19.519 the outcome of your children. 00:22:19.779 --> 00:22:20.579 I want to let you know 00:22:20.579 --> 00:22:23.019 whether you're at the grandpa stage 00:22:23.019 --> 00:22:24.559 or the first time dad stage 00:22:24.559 --> 00:22:26.400 or hoping to one day to be dad, 00:22:27.339 --> 00:22:28.799 I'll give you a clue. 00:22:29.299 --> 00:22:30.740 Those hoping to be dad 00:22:30.740 --> 00:22:32.339 have a great advantage right now 00:22:32.339 --> 00:22:33.380 because you know what? 00:22:33.380 --> 00:22:34.660 You can look and understand 00:22:34.660 --> 00:22:36.080 and you can prepare yourself 00:22:36.080 --> 00:22:37.500 to be what you ought to be. 00:22:38.700 --> 00:22:40.160 The problem with being grandpa, 00:22:40.320 --> 00:22:41.580 sometimes you look back 00:22:41.580 --> 00:22:41.900 and say, 00:22:42.020 --> 00:22:43.000 I wish I would have. 00:22:44.660 --> 00:22:46.340 And there's things you can't undo. 00:22:46.780 --> 00:22:47.500 But I want you to understand, 00:22:47.600 --> 00:22:48.860 I didn't tell you that to discourage you, 00:22:48.880 --> 00:22:49.620 I'm telling you that 00:22:49.620 --> 00:22:51.320 to give you understanding. 00:22:51.420 --> 00:22:51.860 That's the reason 00:22:51.860 --> 00:22:53.520 those other elements need to come in. 00:22:54.700 --> 00:22:55.920 Because sometimes as a parent, 00:22:56.020 --> 00:22:57.020 you need to ask for forgiveness. 00:22:57.480 --> 00:22:58.980 That's part of training your kids too. 00:22:59.060 --> 00:23:00.080 You know what's an important thing? 00:23:00.140 --> 00:23:01.500 To have your kids understand that, 00:23:01.500 --> 00:23:02.839 hey, how do you deal 00:23:02.839 --> 00:23:04.119 when something's been wronged 00:23:04.119 --> 00:23:05.339 or somebody's been wronged? 00:23:06.779 --> 00:23:08.519 To model that is important. 00:23:08.980 --> 00:23:11.240 That mental and physical relationship 00:23:11.240 --> 00:23:13.400 both with God and with others 00:23:13.400 --> 00:23:14.460 is important. 00:23:15.279 --> 00:23:16.819 So what does it mean to nurture? 00:23:17.500 --> 00:23:19.539 Nurtures provide that which feeds 00:23:19.539 --> 00:23:21.099 or cultivates growth. 00:23:21.500 --> 00:23:23.539 It involves what they consume. 00:23:24.980 --> 00:23:25.279 You know, 00:23:25.640 --> 00:23:26.480 we need to be careful 00:23:26.480 --> 00:23:27.859 about what our kids consume. 00:23:28.180 --> 00:23:28.619 Physically, 00:23:28.619 --> 00:23:31.079 you know, 00:23:31.099 --> 00:23:31.799 if we let your kids 00:23:31.799 --> 00:23:32.699 eat too many sweets, 00:23:32.779 --> 00:23:33.299 what happens? 00:23:35.159 --> 00:23:36.479 It has a health impact. 00:23:37.579 --> 00:23:38.119 But you know, 00:23:38.159 --> 00:23:39.319 oftentimes where kids learn 00:23:39.319 --> 00:23:40.559 to do that is from parents. 00:23:40.879 --> 00:23:41.039 Now, 00:23:41.379 --> 00:23:42.459 I'm preaching to myself, 00:23:42.559 --> 00:23:43.379 I love sweets, man. 00:23:43.439 --> 00:23:44.519 Ice cream is the greatest thing 00:23:44.519 --> 00:23:45.039 ever invented. 00:23:46.659 --> 00:23:47.479 If I had a choice 00:23:47.479 --> 00:23:48.699 between ice cream and coffee, 00:23:48.779 --> 00:23:49.839 I think ice cream might win. 00:23:50.039 --> 00:23:52.139 But if it was coffee-flavored ice cream, 00:23:52.199 --> 00:23:53.199 then it's just a double win. 00:23:53.479 --> 00:23:54.139 But you know what? 00:23:54.179 --> 00:23:54.759 You have to learn 00:23:54.759 --> 00:23:55.539 that those things need, 00:23:55.659 --> 00:23:56.619 there's certain things in life 00:23:56.619 --> 00:23:57.459 need moderation. 00:23:57.959 --> 00:23:59.000 And teaching your kids 00:23:59.000 --> 00:24:00.019 that is important. 00:24:00.739 --> 00:24:01.919 And as parents, 00:24:02.019 --> 00:24:02.619 we're accountable 00:24:02.619 --> 00:24:04.579 for what your kids ingest, 00:24:04.939 --> 00:24:06.159 both from food, 00:24:06.359 --> 00:24:08.019 but also from entertainment, 00:24:08.239 --> 00:24:09.259 and also especially 00:24:09.259 --> 00:24:10.299 their belief system. 00:24:10.579 --> 00:24:11.979 Because part of our responsibility 00:24:11.979 --> 00:24:12.699 of parents 00:24:12.699 --> 00:24:14.179 is to equip our children 00:24:14.179 --> 00:24:15.799 in understanding 00:24:15.799 --> 00:24:16.899 who God is. 00:24:17.059 --> 00:24:18.000 Because how are they 00:24:18.000 --> 00:24:18.919 going to do their part? 00:24:19.000 --> 00:24:20.039 Look back at verse 1 00:24:20.039 --> 00:24:21.019 there in chapter 6. 00:24:21.719 --> 00:24:22.119 It says, 00:24:22.119 --> 00:24:22.559 Children, 00:24:22.759 --> 00:24:22.939 what? 00:24:23.259 --> 00:24:24.339 Obey your parents 00:24:24.339 --> 00:24:25.019 in the Lord 00:24:25.019 --> 00:24:26.019 for this is right. 00:24:27.139 --> 00:24:28.319 Let me ask you a question. 00:24:28.419 --> 00:24:28.919 How are the kids 00:24:28.919 --> 00:24:29.839 supposed to know that? 00:24:30.059 --> 00:24:30.559 And it's different 00:24:30.559 --> 00:24:31.799 from memorizing the verse. 00:24:31.879 --> 00:24:32.419 How are they supposed 00:24:32.419 --> 00:24:33.439 to know what it means? 00:24:33.720 --> 00:24:34.419 Then I'll ask you 00:24:34.419 --> 00:24:34.959 the other part. 00:24:35.019 --> 00:24:35.599 How do they know 00:24:35.599 --> 00:24:36.599 how to do it? 00:24:36.759 --> 00:24:37.679 Because we all know 00:24:37.679 --> 00:24:38.899 you can know something 00:24:38.899 --> 00:24:41.199 and not do something. 00:24:41.500 --> 00:24:42.419 We need to be careful 00:24:42.419 --> 00:24:43.639 of what we're teaching 00:24:43.639 --> 00:24:44.859 our children. 00:24:45.019 --> 00:24:45.639 This involves 00:24:45.639 --> 00:24:47.139 both their physical well-being 00:24:47.139 --> 00:24:48.319 and spiritual well-being. 00:24:48.720 --> 00:24:49.740 How do they learn 00:24:49.740 --> 00:24:50.539 by training? 00:24:50.639 --> 00:24:51.519 And training involves 00:24:51.519 --> 00:24:52.879 correction and guidance 00:24:52.879 --> 00:24:53.879 and the responsibility 00:24:53.879 --> 00:24:56.359 here is for fathers 00:24:56.359 --> 00:24:58.700 along with the moms. 00:24:59.240 --> 00:25:00.079 I want you to understand 00:25:00.079 --> 00:25:00.839 this passage 00:25:00.839 --> 00:25:01.839 isn't an exclusive 00:25:01.839 --> 00:25:02.539 dad thing 00:25:02.539 --> 00:25:03.139 because if dad 00:25:03.139 --> 00:25:04.160 is the head of the home 00:25:04.160 --> 00:25:05.799 and mom is subject 00:25:05.799 --> 00:25:06.740 unto dad 00:25:06.740 --> 00:25:09.000 in a biblical sense, 00:25:09.039 --> 00:25:09.519 we're going to talk 00:25:09.519 --> 00:25:10.559 about that coming up 00:25:10.559 --> 00:25:11.740 because the Bible 00:25:11.740 --> 00:25:13.039 talks about that relationship 00:25:13.039 --> 00:25:14.019 and that's very important. 00:25:14.099 --> 00:25:14.180 You know, 00:25:14.200 --> 00:25:14.799 one of the problems 00:25:14.799 --> 00:25:15.859 that you find in families 00:25:15.859 --> 00:25:16.879 when mom says one thing 00:25:16.879 --> 00:25:17.680 and dad says another. 00:25:18.000 --> 00:25:18.819 You want to divide 00:25:18.819 --> 00:25:19.879 and show partiality 00:25:19.879 --> 00:25:20.500 in your family? 00:25:20.500 --> 00:25:22.180 There you go, 00:25:22.240 --> 00:25:22.660 right there. 00:25:24.039 --> 00:25:24.880 As parents, 00:25:24.960 --> 00:25:25.599 you better be on 00:25:25.599 --> 00:25:26.380 the same team 00:25:26.380 --> 00:25:27.740 for your sake 00:25:27.740 --> 00:25:30.000 and your children's sake 00:25:30.000 --> 00:25:31.039 because if you're not 00:25:31.039 --> 00:25:31.900 on the same team, 00:25:31.980 --> 00:25:32.119 you know, 00:25:32.140 --> 00:25:32.619 it's amazing 00:25:32.619 --> 00:25:33.279 how many people 00:25:33.279 --> 00:25:34.160 separate after their 00:25:34.160 --> 00:25:34.799 kids leave home. 00:25:36.420 --> 00:25:37.240 You know why? 00:25:37.299 --> 00:25:37.900 They became on 00:25:37.900 --> 00:25:38.720 two different teams 00:25:38.720 --> 00:25:39.460 instead of being 00:25:39.460 --> 00:25:40.339 on the same team. 00:25:40.559 --> 00:25:41.579 I'll give you a little clue 00:25:41.579 --> 00:25:43.180 for married people. 00:25:43.380 --> 00:25:44.140 I want you to understand 00:25:44.140 --> 00:25:44.759 your kids are going 00:25:44.759 --> 00:25:45.339 to leave home 00:25:45.339 --> 00:25:45.700 and you're going 00:25:45.700 --> 00:25:47.160 to have to live 00:25:47.160 --> 00:25:47.880 with your spouse 00:25:47.880 --> 00:25:48.880 by yourself again. 00:25:49.279 --> 00:25:49.740 That ought to be 00:25:49.740 --> 00:25:50.420 something you look 00:25:50.420 --> 00:25:51.380 forward to 00:25:51.380 --> 00:25:52.480 and not something 00:25:52.480 --> 00:25:54.359 that you don't. 00:25:56.200 --> 00:25:57.019 But oftentimes, 00:25:57.279 --> 00:25:58.299 people look at one another 00:25:58.299 --> 00:25:58.740 and they look, 00:25:58.799 --> 00:25:59.380 who are you? 00:26:00.880 --> 00:26:01.640 Because they weren't 00:26:01.640 --> 00:26:02.440 on the same team. 00:26:02.700 --> 00:26:03.319 To understand 00:26:03.319 --> 00:26:04.059 the importance 00:26:04.059 --> 00:26:04.819 of this 00:26:04.819 --> 00:26:06.440 and make sure dads 00:26:06.440 --> 00:26:07.180 of what mom 00:26:07.180 --> 00:26:07.680 is doing 00:26:07.680 --> 00:26:08.519 and sometimes 00:26:08.519 --> 00:26:09.599 you need to get together 00:26:09.599 --> 00:26:10.460 and get those things 00:26:10.460 --> 00:26:11.180 ironed out. 00:26:11.900 --> 00:26:12.539 But I want you 00:26:12.539 --> 00:26:13.079 to understand 00:26:13.079 --> 00:26:14.380 it's not a responsibility 00:26:14.380 --> 00:26:15.980 just for mom 00:26:15.980 --> 00:26:17.559 or for taking kids 00:26:17.559 --> 00:26:18.559 just to Sunday school 00:26:18.559 --> 00:26:18.860 to say, 00:26:18.940 --> 00:26:19.360 hey, that's going 00:26:19.360 --> 00:26:19.819 to take care 00:26:19.819 --> 00:26:20.220 of everything. 00:26:20.339 --> 00:26:20.860 No, dads, 00:26:20.900 --> 00:26:21.759 it's your role. 00:26:23.579 --> 00:26:25.079 It's your responsibility. 00:26:25.900 --> 00:26:26.039 You know, 00:26:26.079 --> 00:26:26.620 think about, 00:26:27.079 --> 00:26:28.000 look at Abraham 00:26:28.000 --> 00:26:29.579 who guided his family 00:26:29.579 --> 00:26:30.799 in worship 00:26:30.799 --> 00:26:31.460 and obedience 00:26:31.460 --> 00:26:31.980 to God. 00:26:32.039 --> 00:26:32.640 I want you to understand 00:26:32.640 --> 00:26:32.940 when you look 00:26:32.940 --> 00:26:33.880 at Abraham's life, 00:26:33.940 --> 00:26:34.799 he wasn't perfect 00:26:34.799 --> 00:26:35.579 in any way. 00:26:35.579 --> 00:26:39.599 But as Abraham matured, 00:26:40.139 --> 00:26:41.439 we see some things 00:26:41.439 --> 00:26:43.539 that God says about him 00:26:43.539 --> 00:26:44.159 that tells us 00:26:44.159 --> 00:26:45.059 that Abraham 00:26:45.059 --> 00:26:47.319 matured himself up 00:26:47.319 --> 00:26:48.099 and passed some 00:26:48.099 --> 00:26:48.919 mature things 00:26:48.919 --> 00:26:49.740 on to his children. 00:26:50.619 --> 00:26:51.419 Look over in 00:26:51.419 --> 00:26:52.799 Genesis chapter 18. 00:26:53.199 --> 00:26:54.720 Genesis chapter 18 00:26:54.720 --> 00:26:55.619 and verse 19 00:26:55.619 --> 00:26:56.460 tells us this, 00:26:56.859 --> 00:26:57.519 and God says, 00:26:57.619 --> 00:26:58.460 for I know him 00:26:58.460 --> 00:26:59.419 that he will command 00:26:59.419 --> 00:27:00.199 his children 00:27:00.199 --> 00:27:01.359 and his household 00:27:01.359 --> 00:27:02.279 after him 00:27:02.279 --> 00:27:05.179 and they will keep 00:27:05.180 --> 00:27:06.140 the way of the Lord 00:27:06.140 --> 00:27:07.220 to do justice 00:27:07.220 --> 00:27:08.340 and judgment 00:27:08.340 --> 00:27:08.980 that the Lord 00:27:08.980 --> 00:27:11.560 may bring upon Abraham 00:27:11.560 --> 00:27:12.420 that which he has 00:27:12.420 --> 00:27:14.660 spoken of him. 00:27:14.960 --> 00:27:15.160 You know, 00:27:15.180 --> 00:27:16.279 we need to incorporate 00:27:16.279 --> 00:27:17.620 the things of the Lord 00:27:17.620 --> 00:27:18.980 and the things of life 00:27:18.980 --> 00:27:20.580 into our children. 00:27:21.100 --> 00:27:21.279 You know, 00:27:21.320 --> 00:27:22.240 consider what the Bible 00:27:22.240 --> 00:27:22.960 tells us in 00:27:22.960 --> 00:27:24.440 Deuteronomy chapter 6. 00:27:25.039 --> 00:27:26.360 Deuteronomy chapter 6 00:27:26.360 --> 00:27:27.060 and says this, 00:27:27.160 --> 00:27:28.240 and these words 00:27:28.240 --> 00:27:29.259 which I command thee 00:27:29.259 --> 00:27:29.740 this day 00:27:29.740 --> 00:27:31.180 shall be in thine heart. 00:27:32.180 --> 00:27:32.700 Now, 00:27:32.779 --> 00:27:33.720 that's an important direction 00:27:33.720 --> 00:27:34.539 because you can't 00:27:34.539 --> 00:27:35.080 give something 00:27:35.079 --> 00:27:35.679 you don't possess. 00:27:36.179 --> 00:27:37.059 We don't get to operate 00:27:37.059 --> 00:27:37.779 like the government. 00:27:37.919 --> 00:27:38.659 We don't get to just 00:27:38.659 --> 00:27:40.099 get an endless check. 00:27:40.339 --> 00:27:41.319 You can only give 00:27:41.319 --> 00:27:41.819 to others 00:27:41.819 --> 00:27:42.720 what you possess. 00:27:44.259 --> 00:27:45.179 What is there? 00:27:45.500 --> 00:27:47.039 And thou shalt teach them 00:27:47.039 --> 00:27:48.419 diligently unto who? 00:27:49.720 --> 00:27:50.559 Thy children. 00:27:51.559 --> 00:27:51.779 Now, 00:27:51.839 --> 00:27:52.599 notice how you 00:27:52.599 --> 00:27:53.659 diligently teach. 00:27:53.759 --> 00:27:54.199 Notice what it says. 00:27:54.519 --> 00:27:55.740 And shalt talk of them 00:27:55.740 --> 00:27:56.460 when thou sittest 00:27:56.460 --> 00:27:57.299 in thine house 00:27:57.299 --> 00:27:58.619 and when thou walkest 00:27:58.619 --> 00:27:59.139 by the way 00:27:59.139 --> 00:28:00.179 when they liest down 00:28:00.179 --> 00:28:01.419 and when they risest up. 00:28:02.919 --> 00:28:04.139 When does that happen? 00:28:04.140 --> 00:28:04.880 When your kids 00:28:04.880 --> 00:28:06.640 see you living life, 00:28:06.900 --> 00:28:07.800 how do you respond 00:28:07.800 --> 00:28:08.340 to others? 00:28:08.440 --> 00:28:09.720 How do you walk 00:28:09.720 --> 00:28:11.160 through difficult situations? 00:28:11.520 --> 00:28:12.280 How do you make 00:28:12.280 --> 00:28:13.080 right choices? 00:28:13.280 --> 00:28:13.800 What choices 00:28:13.800 --> 00:28:14.540 don't you make? 00:28:14.580 --> 00:28:15.020 What choices 00:28:15.020 --> 00:28:15.660 do you make? 00:28:15.840 --> 00:28:16.920 How do you prioritize? 00:28:17.680 --> 00:28:18.520 If two things are, 00:28:18.660 --> 00:28:19.620 if there's nothing wrong 00:28:19.620 --> 00:28:20.220 with two things, 00:28:20.300 --> 00:28:20.960 what makes one 00:28:20.960 --> 00:28:21.500 more important 00:28:21.500 --> 00:28:22.080 than the other? 00:28:22.080 --> 00:28:23.560 You teach your children. 00:28:25.880 --> 00:28:26.040 You know, 00:28:26.080 --> 00:28:26.680 one of the problems 00:28:26.680 --> 00:28:27.800 I think we often have 00:28:27.800 --> 00:28:28.460 as dads 00:28:28.460 --> 00:28:30.280 and parents in general 00:28:30.280 --> 00:28:30.720 is sometimes 00:28:30.720 --> 00:28:31.660 our own pride 00:28:31.660 --> 00:28:32.519 gets in the way 00:28:32.519 --> 00:28:33.220 of us training 00:28:33.220 --> 00:28:33.800 our children 00:28:33.800 --> 00:28:35.519 because we're too proud 00:28:35.519 --> 00:28:35.940 to say, 00:28:36.060 --> 00:28:36.779 no, I need to make 00:28:36.779 --> 00:28:37.460 this decision 00:28:37.460 --> 00:28:38.200 and not that one. 00:28:38.680 --> 00:28:39.519 Verse 8 tells us here, 00:28:39.600 --> 00:28:40.360 thou shalt bind them 00:28:40.360 --> 00:28:41.800 for a sign upon thine hand 00:28:41.800 --> 00:28:42.460 and they shall be 00:28:42.460 --> 00:28:43.080 as frontlets 00:28:43.080 --> 00:28:44.220 between thine eyes. 00:28:45.080 --> 00:28:45.340 You know, 00:28:45.360 --> 00:28:45.860 something that ought 00:28:45.860 --> 00:28:46.500 to be seen, 00:28:46.820 --> 00:28:47.700 something that's shown. 00:28:48.040 --> 00:28:48.200 You know, 00:28:48.220 --> 00:28:48.800 there's an old saying 00:28:48.800 --> 00:28:49.680 that says more things 00:28:49.680 --> 00:28:50.740 are caught than taught. 00:28:51.019 --> 00:28:51.820 Your kids pick up 00:28:51.820 --> 00:28:52.500 mannerisms 00:28:52.500 --> 00:28:54.019 and all sorts 00:28:54.019 --> 00:28:54.820 of different things 00:28:54.820 --> 00:28:55.400 from you. 00:28:56.200 --> 00:28:56.540 You know, 00:28:56.640 --> 00:28:57.800 they pick up a picture 00:28:57.800 --> 00:28:58.900 of who God is 00:28:58.900 --> 00:28:59.720 from their parents. 00:29:00.000 --> 00:29:00.160 You know, 00:29:00.160 --> 00:29:00.820 the reality is 00:29:00.820 --> 00:29:01.600 sometimes they come 00:29:01.600 --> 00:29:02.180 with a smile 00:29:02.180 --> 00:29:02.800 on their face 00:29:02.800 --> 00:29:03.540 on Sunday morning 00:29:03.540 --> 00:29:04.380 and roast the preacher 00:29:04.380 --> 00:29:05.120 on the way home. 00:29:05.380 --> 00:29:05.640 You know what 00:29:05.640 --> 00:29:06.620 that tells your kids? 00:29:06.880 --> 00:29:07.600 It's presenting 00:29:07.600 --> 00:29:08.759 a picture of them 00:29:08.759 --> 00:29:11.800 of what are the things 00:29:11.800 --> 00:29:12.340 of God, 00:29:12.420 --> 00:29:13.279 what's the priority, 00:29:13.440 --> 00:29:14.519 how to honor somebody, 00:29:14.620 --> 00:29:15.700 how to do those things. 00:29:16.400 --> 00:29:17.080 I'm not saying 00:29:17.080 --> 00:29:17.820 you never have a problem 00:29:17.820 --> 00:29:18.380 with the preacher 00:29:18.380 --> 00:29:18.980 but you need to, 00:29:19.060 --> 00:29:19.920 it's never them timing 00:29:19.920 --> 00:29:21.180 and perspective things again. 00:29:22.120 --> 00:29:22.720 It needs to be dealt 00:29:22.720 --> 00:29:23.620 with the right way 00:29:23.620 --> 00:29:27.220 instead of tearing down things. 00:29:27.500 --> 00:29:28.440 But look also here 00:29:28.440 --> 00:29:29.320 back in our text 00:29:29.319 --> 00:29:30.159 in verse 4. 00:29:30.819 --> 00:29:31.980 It says not only nurture 00:29:31.980 --> 00:29:33.220 but admonition. 00:29:34.960 --> 00:29:35.399 Admonishing. 00:29:37.259 --> 00:29:38.279 Because nurturing 00:29:38.279 --> 00:29:38.859 or training 00:29:38.859 --> 00:29:40.079 involves more than 00:29:40.079 --> 00:29:40.679 correction 00:29:40.679 --> 00:29:42.159 and instruction 00:29:42.159 --> 00:29:43.439 but also love 00:29:43.439 --> 00:29:44.099 and patience 00:29:44.099 --> 00:29:45.079 and understanding. 00:29:46.159 --> 00:29:46.339 You know, 00:29:46.379 --> 00:29:47.279 a father's role 00:29:47.279 --> 00:29:48.799 cannot be overstated. 00:29:49.799 --> 00:29:50.019 You know, 00:29:50.179 --> 00:29:52.099 we need to teach them 00:29:52.099 --> 00:29:52.960 by the choices 00:29:52.960 --> 00:29:53.700 and the things 00:29:53.700 --> 00:29:54.379 and the priorities. 00:29:54.500 --> 00:29:55.619 How do we respond? 00:29:56.019 --> 00:29:56.980 How do we show them 00:29:56.980 --> 00:29:58.439 what maturity looks like? 00:29:58.440 --> 00:29:59.860 A father's display 00:29:59.860 --> 00:30:00.480 of love 00:30:00.480 --> 00:30:01.240 and patience 00:30:01.240 --> 00:30:02.299 towards his children 00:30:02.299 --> 00:30:04.820 has a direct impact 00:30:04.820 --> 00:30:08.340 in their confidence, 00:30:09.100 --> 00:30:10.519 in their stability. 00:30:11.259 --> 00:30:13.380 It has a direct impact 00:30:13.380 --> 00:30:15.580 upon their life. 00:30:16.900 --> 00:30:19.840 That practical daily skill 00:30:19.839 --> 00:30:22.939 of understanding 00:30:22.939 --> 00:30:24.519 how to walk through life 00:30:24.519 --> 00:30:26.139 and it gives confidence 00:30:26.139 --> 00:30:26.819 and stability 00:30:26.819 --> 00:30:27.659 to the kids 00:30:27.659 --> 00:30:28.319 when it's founded 00:30:28.319 --> 00:30:29.419 on the word of God. 00:30:30.299 --> 00:30:31.439 It provides them 00:30:31.439 --> 00:30:32.799 with a picture also 00:30:32.799 --> 00:30:33.959 of a heavenly father 00:30:33.959 --> 00:30:34.939 that cares for them. 00:30:35.279 --> 00:30:35.419 You know, 00:30:35.459 --> 00:30:36.179 it's amazing 00:30:36.179 --> 00:30:36.859 how many people 00:30:36.859 --> 00:30:38.000 get a tainted view 00:30:38.000 --> 00:30:38.639 of God 00:30:38.639 --> 00:30:39.259 because they have 00:30:39.259 --> 00:30:40.500 a tainted view 00:30:40.500 --> 00:30:41.220 of fatherhood. 00:30:41.359 --> 00:30:42.279 They think God 00:30:42.279 --> 00:30:43.419 is just like their father. 00:30:43.819 --> 00:30:43.919 Well, 00:30:43.919 --> 00:30:44.779 I've got some good news 00:30:44.779 --> 00:30:45.099 for you. 00:30:45.099 --> 00:30:46.219 God's a lot better 00:30:46.219 --> 00:30:47.139 than your dad. 00:30:48.579 --> 00:30:49.459 God's a lot better 00:30:49.459 --> 00:30:50.379 than the best dad 00:30:50.379 --> 00:30:53.539 because even the best dad 00:30:53.539 --> 00:30:54.219 is going to make 00:30:54.219 --> 00:30:54.919 some mistakes, 00:30:55.759 --> 00:30:56.959 do some things 00:30:56.959 --> 00:30:57.859 they ought not to do, 00:30:58.019 --> 00:30:59.159 but God never has 00:30:59.159 --> 00:30:59.819 and never will. 00:31:00.079 --> 00:31:02.019 He's the perfect father. 00:31:03.419 --> 00:31:04.059 You think about 00:31:04.059 --> 00:31:04.659 the picture 00:31:04.659 --> 00:31:06.459 of the prodigal son 00:31:06.459 --> 00:31:07.639 there in Luke 15. 00:31:08.919 --> 00:31:09.839 It talks about 00:31:09.839 --> 00:31:10.959 the father saw him 00:31:10.959 --> 00:31:11.819 had compassion 00:31:11.819 --> 00:31:12.319 and ran 00:31:12.319 --> 00:31:13.279 and fell on his neck 00:31:13.279 --> 00:31:14.759 and kissed his son 00:31:14.759 --> 00:31:16.439 and we realize here 00:31:16.439 --> 00:31:17.599 that the picture 00:31:17.599 --> 00:31:19.619 is that of a heavenly father 00:31:19.619 --> 00:31:21.299 who cares about you 00:31:21.299 --> 00:31:22.980 that seeks reconciliation. 00:31:23.759 --> 00:31:23.899 You know, 00:31:23.919 --> 00:31:25.480 how one pictures their dad 00:31:25.480 --> 00:31:26.740 influences their picture 00:31:26.740 --> 00:31:27.459 of God. 00:31:29.099 --> 00:31:29.279 You know, 00:31:29.279 --> 00:31:30.079 if they see God 00:31:30.079 --> 00:31:30.799 and their dad 00:31:30.799 --> 00:31:31.959 as one that provokes 00:31:31.959 --> 00:31:32.879 them to anger, 00:31:33.619 --> 00:31:34.819 they'll see God's 00:31:34.819 --> 00:31:36.399 instruction comparably. 00:31:36.759 --> 00:31:37.259 They'll look at 00:31:37.259 --> 00:31:38.119 the things of God 00:31:38.119 --> 00:31:38.459 and say, 00:31:38.460 --> 00:31:40.120 if my dad's like that 00:31:40.120 --> 00:31:41.220 and God commands 00:31:41.220 --> 00:31:41.880 all these things 00:31:41.880 --> 00:31:43.220 then God must be 00:31:43.220 --> 00:31:44.400 mean and cruel 00:31:44.400 --> 00:31:45.340 and all the things 00:31:45.340 --> 00:31:46.319 that people get a picture 00:31:46.319 --> 00:31:49.220 that are counter 00:31:49.220 --> 00:31:50.700 to who God really is. 00:31:51.019 --> 00:31:51.200 You know, 00:31:51.240 --> 00:31:52.220 the role that you have 00:31:52.220 --> 00:31:53.519 as dad is essential. 00:31:55.559 --> 00:31:55.759 You know, 00:31:55.779 --> 00:31:56.779 I want to encourage you 00:31:56.779 --> 00:31:57.700 because you know what? 00:31:58.340 --> 00:31:59.460 The best thing is 00:31:59.460 --> 00:32:00.079 is every day 00:32:00.079 --> 00:32:00.680 is a new day 00:32:00.680 --> 00:32:01.180 with the Lord. 00:32:01.400 --> 00:32:02.200 I'm not saying 00:32:02.200 --> 00:32:03.240 that one change 00:32:03.240 --> 00:32:03.960 in your life 00:32:03.960 --> 00:32:04.799 as a dad's going to 00:32:04.799 --> 00:32:05.539 change everything 00:32:05.539 --> 00:32:06.180 in your family, 00:32:06.299 --> 00:32:06.819 but I guarantee 00:32:06.819 --> 00:32:07.600 it's one step 00:32:07.600 --> 00:32:08.440 getting in the right direction. 00:32:08.720 --> 00:32:09.460 Because often 00:32:09.460 --> 00:32:10.519 when we have problems, 00:32:10.620 --> 00:32:11.440 I want you to understand 00:32:11.440 --> 00:32:12.319 you didn't get there 00:32:12.319 --> 00:32:13.140 overnight and you're not 00:32:13.140 --> 00:32:13.940 going to solve a problem 00:32:13.940 --> 00:32:14.340 overnight. 00:32:14.680 --> 00:32:14.840 You know, 00:32:14.840 --> 00:32:15.740 it's amazing how many 00:32:15.740 --> 00:32:16.259 people think, 00:32:16.360 --> 00:32:16.420 well, 00:32:16.480 --> 00:32:17.579 this is 15 years 00:32:17.579 --> 00:32:18.079 in the making, 00:32:18.160 --> 00:32:19.240 I want it solved tomorrow. 00:32:19.360 --> 00:32:19.500 No, 00:32:19.900 --> 00:32:20.840 sometimes it might take 00:32:20.840 --> 00:32:22.059 30 years to iron out 00:32:22.059 --> 00:32:23.259 15 years of problem, 00:32:23.519 --> 00:32:24.100 but you need to make 00:32:24.100 --> 00:32:24.819 the investment 00:32:24.819 --> 00:32:28.000 to say this is the direction, 00:32:28.180 --> 00:32:28.900 this is what we're going 00:32:28.900 --> 00:32:30.340 to do from here on. 00:32:30.400 --> 00:32:31.640 I know where we were, 00:32:31.880 --> 00:32:33.120 but I know where I want 00:32:33.120 --> 00:32:33.680 to go 00:32:33.680 --> 00:32:36.460 and make a difference, 00:32:36.519 --> 00:32:37.220 a distinction 00:32:37.220 --> 00:32:38.900 in our life. 00:32:39.940 --> 00:32:40.140 You know, 00:32:40.160 --> 00:32:41.240 I want you to consider 00:32:41.240 --> 00:32:42.500 where you need improvement 00:32:42.500 --> 00:32:43.420 even this week 00:32:43.420 --> 00:32:44.200 as a dad. 00:32:45.320 --> 00:32:45.660 You know, 00:32:46.200 --> 00:32:47.120 where can you improve? 00:32:47.220 --> 00:32:48.360 What things does God tell you 00:32:48.360 --> 00:32:49.080 you need to change 00:32:49.080 --> 00:32:49.660 a little bit 00:32:49.660 --> 00:32:51.160 or deal with? 00:32:51.420 --> 00:32:52.320 Don't be discouraged 00:32:52.320 --> 00:32:53.820 in your role as dad. 00:32:53.900 --> 00:32:54.940 I want to encourage you 00:32:54.940 --> 00:32:55.860 to step up 00:32:55.860 --> 00:32:56.940 and to follow 00:32:56.940 --> 00:32:57.980 God's principles 00:32:57.980 --> 00:32:59.259 that you might 00:32:59.259 --> 00:33:00.200 bring them up 00:33:00.200 --> 00:33:01.660 in the nourishment 00:33:01.660 --> 00:33:03.019 and admonishment 00:33:03.019 --> 00:33:03.819 of the Lord. 00:33:05.440 --> 00:33:06.500 To bring them up 00:33:06.500 --> 00:33:07.360 in the right things 00:33:07.360 --> 00:33:08.400 because the greatest 00:33:08.400 --> 00:33:09.500 legacy a father 00:33:09.500 --> 00:33:10.299 can have 00:33:10.299 --> 00:33:13.019 is a faith in Christ 00:33:13.019 --> 00:33:13.579 and a love 00:33:13.579 --> 00:33:14.299 for his family. 00:33:14.559 --> 00:33:15.279 To understand 00:33:15.279 --> 00:33:16.160 those things, 00:33:16.240 --> 00:33:17.220 it starts with your 00:33:17.220 --> 00:33:18.259 own relationship 00:33:18.259 --> 00:33:19.079 with the Lord. 00:33:20.240 --> 00:33:20.480 You know, 00:33:20.500 --> 00:33:21.000 this morning, 00:33:21.079 --> 00:33:22.039 I want to encourage you 00:33:22.039 --> 00:33:22.539 to consider 00:33:22.539 --> 00:33:23.720 where are you 00:33:23.720 --> 00:33:24.480 with God? 00:33:25.120 --> 00:33:26.079 It starts 00:33:26.079 --> 00:33:27.200 with you 00:33:27.200 --> 00:33:28.460 and God first. 00:33:28.580 --> 00:33:28.720 You know, 00:33:28.759 --> 00:33:29.940 have you trusted him 00:33:29.940 --> 00:33:31.240 as your savior 00:33:31.240 --> 00:33:32.120 because you cannot 00:33:32.120 --> 00:33:33.340 lead your family 00:33:33.340 --> 00:33:34.519 in faith 00:33:34.519 --> 00:33:35.059 if you don't 00:33:35.059 --> 00:33:36.080 first possess it. 00:33:36.160 --> 00:33:36.980 If you're not willing 00:33:36.980 --> 00:33:37.960 to obey it. 00:33:39.360 --> 00:33:40.480 If you're not willing 00:33:40.480 --> 00:33:41.340 to do it. 00:33:41.539 --> 00:33:42.279 It's important 00:33:42.279 --> 00:33:43.100 because God 00:33:43.100 --> 00:33:44.180 set the stage 00:33:44.180 --> 00:33:44.660 of what, 00:33:45.759 --> 00:33:46.799 how he cares 00:33:46.799 --> 00:33:47.600 for those 00:33:47.600 --> 00:33:48.340 that are his. 00:33:49.080 --> 00:33:49.920 When you consider 00:33:49.920 --> 00:33:50.539 that he gave 00:33:50.539 --> 00:33:51.860 his only begotten son 00:33:51.860 --> 00:33:53.220 to save you. 00:33:54.080 --> 00:33:54.980 He didn't do it 00:33:54.980 --> 00:33:55.799 to provoke you 00:33:55.799 --> 00:33:56.360 to anger 00:33:56.359 --> 00:33:57.459 or to condemn you. 00:33:57.519 --> 00:33:57.959 He did it 00:33:57.959 --> 00:33:58.479 that you might 00:33:58.479 --> 00:33:59.559 believe upon him. 00:34:00.039 --> 00:34:00.199 You know, 00:34:00.240 --> 00:34:01.379 consider a very famous 00:34:01.379 --> 00:34:01.679 verse, 00:34:01.799 --> 00:34:02.839 John 3, 16 00:34:02.839 --> 00:34:03.879 and verse 7 00:34:03.879 --> 00:34:04.139 he says, 00:34:04.199 --> 00:34:05.079 for God so loved 00:34:05.079 --> 00:34:05.439 the world 00:34:05.439 --> 00:34:06.119 that he did what? 00:34:06.159 --> 00:34:07.199 He gave his only 00:34:07.199 --> 00:34:07.979 begotten son 00:34:07.979 --> 00:34:08.699 that whosoever 00:34:08.699 --> 00:34:09.619 believeth in him 00:34:09.619 --> 00:34:11.039 should not perish 00:34:11.039 --> 00:34:12.519 but have everlasting life. 00:34:12.880 --> 00:34:13.579 For God sent 00:34:13.579 --> 00:34:14.179 not his son 00:34:14.179 --> 00:34:14.819 into the world 00:34:14.819 --> 00:34:15.559 to do what? 00:34:15.699 --> 00:34:16.759 Condemn the world 00:34:16.759 --> 00:34:18.859 but that the world 00:34:18.859 --> 00:34:19.359 through him 00:34:19.359 --> 00:34:21.519 might be saved. 00:34:21.679 --> 00:34:22.759 What God did 00:34:22.760 --> 00:34:25.760 was to provoke us 00:34:25.760 --> 00:34:26.400 unto love 00:34:26.400 --> 00:34:27.300 and to good works. 00:34:28.040 --> 00:34:28.900 To provoke us 00:34:28.900 --> 00:34:29.540 unto him 00:34:29.540 --> 00:34:31.800 that we might 00:34:31.800 --> 00:34:32.560 know him 00:34:32.560 --> 00:34:34.900 and understand 00:34:34.900 --> 00:34:35.840 that he gives us 00:34:35.840 --> 00:34:36.500 the guidance 00:34:36.500 --> 00:34:37.300 we need 00:34:37.300 --> 00:34:39.160 to be the dad 00:34:39.160 --> 00:34:39.960 that we ought to be. 00:34:40.160 --> 00:34:41.140 I want to encourage you 00:34:41.140 --> 00:34:41.580 this week 00:34:41.580 --> 00:34:42.300 to consider 00:34:42.300 --> 00:34:44.100 those things. 00:34:44.400 --> 00:34:45.400 Consider yourself 00:34:45.400 --> 00:34:48.120 as a dad 00:34:48.120 --> 00:34:48.840 whether you have 00:34:48.840 --> 00:34:49.900 children yet or not. 00:34:50.620 --> 00:34:50.980 You know what? 00:34:50.980 --> 00:34:51.760 Your preparation 00:34:51.760 --> 00:34:52.780 for being a father 00:34:52.780 --> 00:34:53.420 starts 00:34:53.420 --> 00:34:55.860 from your own father 00:34:55.860 --> 00:34:57.000 raising you up 00:34:57.000 --> 00:34:58.019 and preparing you 00:34:58.019 --> 00:34:58.900 and the choices 00:34:58.900 --> 00:34:59.460 you make 00:34:59.460 --> 00:35:00.139 are important. 00:35:00.440 --> 00:35:00.860 I wanted you 00:35:00.860 --> 00:35:01.820 to consider this morning 00:35:01.820 --> 00:35:02.380 what things 00:35:02.380 --> 00:35:02.920 does Lord 00:35:02.920 --> 00:35:03.639 speak to you 00:35:03.639 --> 00:35:04.320 about today 00:35:04.320 --> 00:35:06.780 in the decisions 00:35:06.780 --> 00:35:07.480 and the things 00:35:07.480 --> 00:35:08.280 and maybe you're here today 00:35:08.280 --> 00:35:08.880 and not sure 00:35:08.880 --> 00:35:10.880 about where you stand 00:35:10.880 --> 00:35:11.420 with God 00:35:11.420 --> 00:35:12.099 I encourage you 00:35:12.099 --> 00:35:13.320 today would be the day 00:35:13.320 --> 00:35:15.320 that you would get 00:35:15.320 --> 00:35:16.639 started on the right footing 00:35:16.639 --> 00:35:17.360 the best footing 00:35:17.360 --> 00:35:18.320 the only footing 00:35:18.320 --> 00:35:19.619 that gets you 00:35:19.619 --> 00:35:20.519 to be the dad 00:35:20.519 --> 00:35:21.400 that you ought 00:35:21.400 --> 00:35:21.699 to be 00:35:21.699 --> 00:35:22.259 and that's to know 00:35:22.259 --> 00:35:23.320 Christ as your savior. 00:35:24.840 --> 00:35:25.880 As heads are bowed 00:35:25.880 --> 00:35:26.639 and eyes are closed 00:35:26.639 --> 00:35:27.119 this morning 00:35:27.119 --> 00:35:30.219 what about you today? 00:35:30.579 --> 00:35:30.920 You know I know 00:35:30.920 --> 00:35:31.659 we had a message 00:35:31.659 --> 00:35:32.500 towards dad 00:35:32.500 --> 00:35:33.719 but really it applies 00:35:33.719 --> 00:35:34.320 to all of us 00:35:34.320 --> 00:35:35.119 in our relationship 00:35:35.119 --> 00:35:35.739 to God. 00:35:35.980 --> 00:35:36.440 Maybe the Lord 00:35:36.440 --> 00:35:37.259 spoke to you 00:35:37.259 --> 00:35:38.119 about some things 00:35:38.119 --> 00:35:38.940 or situations 00:35:38.940 --> 00:35:39.659 or dynamics 00:35:39.659 --> 00:35:40.380 in your life 00:35:40.380 --> 00:35:40.940 and maybe you say 00:35:40.940 --> 00:35:41.199 Lord 00:35:41.199 --> 00:35:42.480 I need to do 00:35:42.480 --> 00:35:43.380 some things different. 00:35:43.699 --> 00:35:44.099 Maybe you need 00:35:44.099 --> 00:35:44.820 to take some time 00:35:44.820 --> 00:35:45.800 to seek God 00:35:45.800 --> 00:35:47.099 and to look at God's word 00:35:47.099 --> 00:35:47.980 get some counsel 00:35:47.980 --> 00:35:48.800 okay how do I 00:35:48.800 --> 00:35:49.500 walk through 00:35:49.500 --> 00:35:51.559 these things? 00:35:51.659 --> 00:35:52.619 How can I start 00:35:52.619 --> 00:35:53.960 and change the direction? 00:35:55.639 --> 00:35:56.760 Or how can I do 00:35:56.760 --> 00:35:57.820 better continuing 00:35:57.820 --> 00:35:58.900 in the direction 00:35:58.900 --> 00:36:01.219 towards serving 00:36:01.219 --> 00:36:01.719 the Lord? 00:36:02.519 --> 00:36:03.340 Heavenly fathers 00:36:03.340 --> 00:36:04.139 we come before you 00:36:04.139 --> 00:36:04.619 this morning 00:36:04.619 --> 00:36:05.179 Lord we just 00:36:05.179 --> 00:36:05.659 thank you 00:36:05.659 --> 00:36:06.380 and praise you. 00:36:07.320 --> 00:36:08.219 Lord we're thankful 00:36:08.219 --> 00:36:08.880 that even though 00:36:08.880 --> 00:36:09.559 you tell us 00:36:09.559 --> 00:36:11.440 things to be careful of 00:36:11.440 --> 00:36:12.940 Lord you also 00:36:12.940 --> 00:36:13.719 encourage us 00:36:13.719 --> 00:36:14.219 to tell us 00:36:14.219 --> 00:36:14.440 hey 00:36:14.440 --> 00:36:16.340 you're giving us 00:36:16.340 --> 00:36:16.940 those things 00:36:16.940 --> 00:36:17.700 that we need 00:36:17.700 --> 00:36:18.320 to do 00:36:18.320 --> 00:36:19.639 and to accomplish 00:36:19.639 --> 00:36:21.300 what you would 00:36:21.300 --> 00:36:21.900 have for us 00:36:21.900 --> 00:36:22.340 to do 00:36:22.340 --> 00:36:23.039 as dads 00:36:23.039 --> 00:36:23.720 here today. 00:36:24.860 --> 00:36:25.119 And Lord 00:36:25.119 --> 00:36:25.860 we just love you 00:36:25.860 --> 00:36:26.360 and thank you 00:36:26.360 --> 00:36:26.800 Lord praise 00:36:26.800 --> 00:36:27.559 we have an opportunity 00:36:27.559 --> 00:36:28.280 to respond 00:36:28.280 --> 00:36:28.920 to your word 00:36:28.920 --> 00:36:29.320 today 00:36:29.320 --> 00:36:31.940 that your spirit 00:36:31.940 --> 00:36:32.579 might stir 00:36:32.579 --> 00:36:33.099 each heart 00:36:33.099 --> 00:36:33.840 each life 00:36:33.840 --> 00:36:34.619 to look at 00:36:34.619 --> 00:36:35.119 ourselves 00:36:35.119 --> 00:36:35.659 to say 00:36:35.659 --> 00:36:36.159 where am I 00:36:36.159 --> 00:36:37.019 with you 00:36:37.019 --> 00:36:38.679 and Lord 00:36:38.679 --> 00:36:39.619 where do I need 00:36:39.619 --> 00:36:40.900 to be different 00:36:40.900 --> 00:36:42.460 according to your word 00:36:42.460 --> 00:36:42.780 and Lord 00:36:42.780 --> 00:36:43.699 we ask these things 00:36:43.699 --> 00:36:44.720 in Jesus name 00:36:44.720 --> 00:36:46.539 as the piano plays 00:36:46.539 --> 00:36:47.280 what about you?