I read lessons John Piper has written that he shared were from his father. I am going to summarize them here as a reminder for our fathers on Father's Day and also realizing they are an enhancement to our worship lives.
1. When things don't go our way, God always makes them turn for good. Romans 8:28 tells us so. An important foundation for our lives is - This is the way God works. Life is hard. God is Sovereign. God is Good.
2. God can be trusted. Psalm 56:11 says, "In God I have put my trust, I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me? "
3. People are lost and need faith in Jesus.
4. Life is precarious and precious. Don't presume that you have tomorrow and don't waste today. "Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring."
5. A merry heart does good like a medicine, and Christ satisfies our hearts. We are saved, safe, and satisfied in Christ.
6. The Christian life is supernatural. The Christian life is lived in the power of the Holy Spirit.
7. Bible truth is important, but don't beat people up with it. Ephesians 4:15 says, "Speak the truth in love. Both truth and love are important."
8. Respect your mother. Our heavenly Father is clear about honoring our mothers.
9. Be who God made you to be and don't try to be someone else. Seek God's will and be whatever God has made you to be.
10. Make God the main thing. Put Him first in all things. Matthew 6:33 - "Seek the kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need."
Fathers, lead your children to these lessons and show them how to worship both privately and when you are gathered with the body in corporate worship. They are watching. mjm
