BIBLICAL FATHERHOOD--THE GREAT NEED OF THE WORLD 11cc) THE SHEPHERDING FATHER IS LAVISH IN GOODNESS AND MERCY

Because God is such a good and merciful God, it stands to reason that we who profess to follow Him should also be the same. Christian fathers and mothers should be the most good and merciful of all parents on the face of the earth. The Spirit of God is ever seeking to conform us into the same image of our Great Shepherd of the sheep. How can our children observe the day to day goodness and mercy of the Lord if they cannot see it demonstrated through us?

We have to admit that many Christian families are as broken and messed up as the families of the world. In Matthew 5:7 Jesus said, "Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy." Without a doubt, we all want to receive God's mercy in abundance. But, is it not a paradox when we are so stingy at showing mercy towards our own loved ones?

Fathers, let us be known for our lavish and spontaneous goodness and mercy. If we feel we are falling short of God's goodness and mercy, let us ask ourselves, How much goodness and mercy am I showing to others around me?

Be encouraged.

Colin Campbell