Finding The Flawless Father
The writer of the Hebrew letter talks about earthly fathers and our Heavenly Father. Let me quote. “Our earthly fathers trained us for a few brief years, doing the best for us that they knew how, but God’s correction is always right and for our best good, that we may share His holiness.” (Hebrews 12:10 LNT)
I know, as a father, there were and are times I could have done better. Some mistakes were because of ignorance or immaturity. Others were simply the result of selfishness. Like most fathers, I find myself with regrets. Such is the human condition. The Hebrew writer points out that earthly fathers have a short time and limited understanding. It is very true that fathers have a tremendous impact on their children. Often that influence can be seen in their sons and daughters as powerfully positive or noticeably negative. Beyond a doubt, the duty of a dad is definitely important and must be taken seriously.
There is an ever greater lesson to be learned from the short thought provoking passage in Hebrews. Our Heavenly Father has us for a lifetime. He is not short on knowledge. He always does what is right. He has our best interest in His heart, and He wants us to grow up looking more like Him. He is extremely patient. In the words of that little chorus, “He’s still working on me.”
None of us had perfect fathers. Granted some were much better than others. I greatly loved and respected my dad, but he and I both knew he was flawed. The good news is that if we accept God’s invitation, we will find the flawless Father. “I will be a Father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters says the Lord Almighty.” (II Cor. 6:18 NKJV)
-Terry Morrison