Our Fathers Who Are on Earth

Our Fathers Who Are on Earth
Matthew 6:9 – 13

What are fathers supposed to do?

I. A FATHER’S PRIORITY IS GOD.

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Matthew 6:9 KJV

You might say that God is the most important thing in your life, but would your kids agree with it?

God is hallowed when He rules as king in our hearts.

II. A FATHER PROVIDES FOR HIS CHILDREN

Give us this day our daily bread.” Matthew 6:11 KJV

It's right to expect our heavenly Father to provide.

Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Matthew 6:26-27 KJV

Earthly fathers are the primary means by which our heavenly Father provides for families.

But those who won’t care for their relatives, especially those in their own household, have denied the true faith. Such people are worse than unbelievers.1 Timothy 5:8 NLT

The mandate to provide is not permission to get buried in your work to provide extra things.

III. A FATHER PARDONS HIS CHILDREN.

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. Matthew 6:12 KJV

A father can provide bread but if he doesn't provide forgiveness, his children will experience emotion and spiritual malnourish.

Fathers make an emotional investment in your kids through affirmation, encouragement, expressions of love, and forgiveness.

Create in your home a culture of pardon.

IV. A FATHER PROTECTS HIS CHILDREN.

And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: Matthew 6:13 KJV

This is not asking that we never be tempted. It is an emotional plea not to be tempted beyond our capacity to resist.

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV

Protect your children physically, morally, and spiritually. Be willing to be unpopular at times.

Be strong, but govern lightly with gentleness and tenderness, as God governs.

Remember, its hard work and every earthly father falls short of the ideal in some way.