S) "25 But Jesus called them to Himself and said, 'You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. 26 It is not this way among you, but whoever wishes to become great among you shall be your servant,'"
Matthew 20:25-26 (NASB)
O) There is a misconception that the Biblical authority structure of a marriage and family is sexist, oppressive, and archaic. The truth is, however, that the Bible never allows for shovanism. It never promotes any kind of abuse of power, imposition of will, or "lording over" a wife or children. If a man wants to walk in the authority that God lays out in the Bible, then he needs to serve his wife and kids. He needs to put them first, ahead of himself. This extends also to other ambitions. It's a tricky balance. While it's okay to want advancement in a career or ministry, it cannot be a pursuit of power or authority.
A) I've discovered that I have very little career ambitions. I seldom want to be in charge and I'm content making "enough" money. With my wife, I seldom feel like I need to exercise my authority, because I'm blessed with such a submissive wife. She pursues righteous obedience to me in a way that honors God supremely and makes me want to be a better husband. The biggest area for improvement is probably with my children. It's a little trickier with them, as I need to be a little strict and they still need to learn about authority and obedience. At the same time, though, I cannot let my enforcement of my authority become a burden to them, and I need to ensure that it's always about helping them become better people, and seeing God through me. As their father, my goal is that they will grow up and have an easy time relating to God as Father, because of their experience with me. How I conduct myself in love, compassion, grace, mercy, and authority will go a long way in their understanding how God is as a heavenly Father.
P) Father, every moment of each day, I want to be a clear reflection of You for my children. Help them grow up seeing parallels between how I behave as their father, and how You are as our Father. Holy Spirit, continue to direct, correct, and instruct me to be the father I am meant to be for my children. Help me walk in my God-given authority with honor, integrity, and respect. Lead me, so I can lead them. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
A) I've discovered that I have very little career ambitions. I seldom want to be in charge and I'm content making "enough" money. With my wife, I seldom feel like I need to exercise my authority, because I'm blessed with such a submissive wife. She pursues righteous obedience to me in a way that honors God supremely and makes me want to be a better husband. The biggest area for improvement is probably with my children. It's a little trickier with them, as I need to be a little strict and they still need to learn about authority and obedience. At the same time, though, I cannot let my enforcement of my authority become a burden to them, and I need to ensure that it's always about helping them become better people, and seeing God through me. As their father, my goal is that they will grow up and have an easy time relating to God as Father, because of their experience with me. How I conduct myself in love, compassion, grace, mercy, and authority will go a long way in their understanding how God is as a heavenly Father.
P) Father, every moment of each day, I want to be a clear reflection of You for my children. Help them grow up seeing parallels between how I behave as their father, and how You are as our Father. Holy Spirit, continue to direct, correct, and instruct me to be the father I am meant to be for my children. Help me walk in my God-given authority with honor, integrity, and respect. Lead me, so I can lead them. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.
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