I am blessed to know some extraordinary men who are amazing fathers. In a world that always seems to try to convince us that success is all about money and prestige, I have seen some incredible examples of the exact opposite to be true. Here are a few examples:
1.) My own father who has shown me ,my sisters,and our families the meaning of faith, forgiveness, authenticity, and unconditional love. His success far exceeds the worlds definition and his legacy is known to many and will be passed on for generations. He puts God first.
2.) Three good friends who are committed, patient fathers with special needs kids. They are advocates for their children. Their intentional, determined love for their kids inspire me while all along they are loving their wives and sharing in the joys and challenges together. They put God first.
3.) Multiple friends who have job challenges, and have even been unemployed for long periods of time. They work so hard to provide for their families and lead their families even when the future is completely uncertain. They put God first.
4.) A friend's husband who sits with their sick child in the hospital and puts on a brave face to give their son courage. He puts God first.
5.) A friend who's child has walked away from the family, yet he kneels every night to pray for protection, peace, and hope. He doesn't give up. He puts God first.
6.) A dad who serves the needy and homeless because he was an addict and has been in recovery for fifteen years and never takes a "clean" day for granted. He puts God first.
7.) A man I have known my whole life who has built a legacy of education combined with grace and faith.....who has loved me, my sisters, my parents, and now my own children. We are forever grateful for his example. His family exudes love, loyalty and sacrifice and we are better for knowing him. He puts God first.
8.) And lastly, my own husband and best friend....who would rather be with his wife and his girls than anywhere on the planet and measures success by God's measuring stick, not the worlds. He is not defined by his wallet, how many friends he has, by his job, or by popularity. He is the man who prays for me, with me, for our girls, and with our girls. The man who works hard, takes care of me, carries me when I am weak, protects my heart, and makes me laugh till I cry. He holds our girls when they are happy, and when they are sad.... he rejoices in their joys and gives them strength when they make mistakes. He helps us see a future full of love and commitment regardless of our circumstances. He puts God first.
Do you see the common thread? .....
These are ALL normal, imperfect, fallible men who take life one day at a time like all the rest of us.
The difference? ......
They choose to put God first and lead their family in faith!!
THAT is what makes a successful husband and father.
Thank you to you all.
We honor you,
we are strengthened by your example,
and we wish you a very Happy Father's Day!
Ephesians 5:25
No comments:
Post a Comment