Fathers, be an example

By: Xh. Sean Yang

Bible Passage: Philippians 4:9

9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me; practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

Summary

Most of the time, parents learn that the best way to teach their children is by setting an example. In healthy families, we learn a lot about what is right and wrong, what is good and bad, by simply watching our parents or older siblings. Watching what they do and how they react to certain situations. How true is this in our relationships in the church, where many experience Christian brothers and sisters in Christ, who gently show us the way or teach us what we need to know.

In our Scripture reading, Paul is pleading with the members of Philippi to settle their conflict and “be of the same mind in the Lord.” A model so amazingly right for families. Paul adds more encouragement by urging everyone to “rejoice in the Lord” and let their gentleness be seen by all. We have to understand that rejoicing and gentleness cannot be taught by just asking someone to do so. It’s much better taught by example and living it out.

For fathers or leaders it is your privilege and responsibility as believers to be an example to others and to your children. Paul’s own life showed joy and gentleness as he himself used his own life as an example to follow. It’s not a matter of just learning what the Bible teaches about such attitudes. What truly counts is putting them into practice, setting an example through your own life. Like Paul, we’ve got to live in such a way that we can say, “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me; practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” A sense of what’s right and what’s wrong is a wonderful and necessary thing to know. What kind of example are you as a father; as a leader?

Reflect

When we look at this verse. Are we as men, as fathers, as leaders living in such a way that shows God’s love and his ways? Do we as Christians shine and reflect a light that shows who we are in Jesus Christ; being an example for our young, our children, and our congregation? Let us reflect upon this verse and use it within our own lives and be an example to those around us.

Pray

Lord, you are our example of love and compassion. You have first loved us and showed us your ways of love and compassion. We ask that you may empower us with your Holy Spirit to live in such a way that others may see Christ living in us always. Be with our fathers and leaders and allow them to see your examples. Help them see their roles and push them to be God fearing men, who love and shows compassion as you have Lord. We pray this all in your name, Amen.