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In His Steps

It was a cold winter’s morning.  Snow had blanketed the ground.  A father was walking out to his car to warm it up for his family.  He had to get to this task early, for they were on their way to church services.  As he sat behind the wheel welcoming the warm air coming through the defroster, he could see his family making their way through the knee-deep snow.  It was his son that had caught his attention.  He had chosen to step in his father’s footprints that were left just moments ago.  On one hand it was heart-warming to see his son following literally in his footsteps, on the other it was a mind-sobering thought to realize that one day he may be following metaphorically.

The example of a father should never be taken lightly.  It is a great responsibility for fathers to train their children in the ways of the Lord.  The apostle Paul wrote, “And you, fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4).  This training is based on the word of God.

There are numerous life experiences that can be related back to the word of God. For example, when children are learning to relate to their peers, there are plenty of verses that pertain to their behavior and strategy. Paul stated that evil companions corrupt good moral (1Co 15:33). We certainly can use this to steer our children toward friends that will have a positive impact on them.

All of us experience trouble with our tongue. Children are no different. James spends a chapter dealing with the subject (James 3). It becomes a great teaching tool to teach how we are to control our speech when relating to others.

Our example before others should be at the forefront of our minds. Paul was always mindful of the example he set before others.  Therefore, he was able to boldly proclaim, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” (1Corinthians 11:1).  “The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:9).

Not only should we teach from the Scriptures, but fathers train their children through the example they set. It is therefore important that we remember our children are always watching us. While they are watching, they are also learning. We always proceed with great caution and awareness.

Today, as we honor our fathers, let us remember not only the teachings they have given, but their great example as well.

God bless each of you,

Eric Hicks


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