When you consider the people in your life, who comes to mind when you think about leaders? Do you appreciate them and what they do? How often do you happen to show them through recognition, acknowledgement, and giving them respect? What about to your parents? How about to your wife and kids? Pause and think about this for a moment before you move forward and allow God to bring thoughts and ideas to your mind of what you can do today.
Today’s Verse of the day:
Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to appreciate those who diligently work among you [recognize, acknowledge, and respect your leaders], who are in charge over you in the Lord and who give you instruction
1 Thessalonians 5:12 AMP
Let’s embody the role of fathers who not only respect those who labor among us and are over us in the Lord, admonishing you as needed. This implies that we should show respect to our spiritual leaders and diligently follow their guidance. Furthermore, let’s take on the responsibility of being fathers who esteem them very highly in love, recognizing the significance of their work. This involves expressing our appreciation for our spiritual leaders and demonstrating love for their dedicated efforts.
Moreover, let’s embrace our role as fathers who actively choose to Live in peace with one another. This signifies our commitment to fostering harmony in our relationships with others and proactively avoiding conflicts. Additionally, let’s be fathers who admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, and exercise patience with everyone. This means we should extend a helping hand to those who are struggling and exhibit patience in our interactions.
Lastly, let’s strive to be fathers who rejoice always, pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances. This entails maintaining a constant attitude of joyfulness, remaining prayerful at all times, and cultivating a spirit of gratitude.
How can we put into practice and apply today’s verse of the day towards being and becoming the dads God created, planned, and purposed for us to be. What can we takeaway from this to help us be the dads our wives, kids, and world need us to be?
Applications of 1 Thessalonians 5:12 in becoming the dads God created, called, and purposes for us to be who appreciate who God has brought into our lives:
- Acknowledgment of Efforts: As fathers, we should acknowledge and appreciate the efforts of our spouses and children in our family. Recognize their hard work and dedication to the family’s well-being.
- Leading by Example: Just as leaders in the church are expected to set a positive example, fathers should lead their families by demonstrating love, respect, and a strong work ethic.
- Caring for Your Family in the Lord: Foster a home environment where faith and spirituality are central. Show your family the importance of a relationship with God through your actions and words.
- Admonish with Love: Just as leaders in the church provide guidance and correction with love, fathers should discipline and instruct their children with love and compassion, teaching them right from wrong.
- Active Participation: Be actively involved in your family’s life. Engage with your children, listen to their concerns, and provide emotional support.
- Support and Encouragement: Like the church members who need encouragement, your family members need your support. Be their biggest cheerleader, and let them know you believe in their abilities and dreams.
- Respect and Unity: Respect your wife as your partner in parenting. Make decisions together and show a united front to your children. Teach them the value of mutual respect and cooperation.
- Serve Your Family: Just as church leaders serve their congregations, fathers should serve their families selflessly. Be willing to sacrifice your time and resources for the well-being of your loved ones.
- Teach Responsibility: Encourage your children to take responsibility for their actions and choices. This helps them grow into responsible adults.
- Gratitude: Teach your family to appreciate the blessings they have. Express gratitude for one another regularly, reinforcing the importance of family bonds.
Appreciate and Recognize those who work hard in the community of believers:
While it may not directly address fatherhood, its principles can be applied to become the dads that God intended us to be, fostering love, care, and guidance within our families. By applying these principles from 1 Thessalonians 5:12, you can work towards being the kind of father that God created you to be—a loving, caring, and supportive leader in your family, just as church leaders are for their congregations.
