Mr. Wise

“Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding. I give you sound learning, so do not forsake my teaching.”- Proverbs 4:1-2

As we celebrate Father’s Day this weekend, we honor the men who demonstrated a life of integrity, humility, sacrifice, and strength. One thing I have learned is that good fathers love to teach.  From cooking to catching a fish, from doing homework to changing the oil; from riding a bike to raking the lawn; we have gained so much from the life lessons they delivered.  Job 8:8, 10 states, “Ask the former generation and find out what their ancestors learned. Will they not instruct you and tell you? Will they not bring forth words from their understanding?”

One of the greatest gifts in my life is having godly men who bring sound counsel, faithful care, and healthy challenge.  A key intersection for my instruction came after Pastor Scott Bauer’s death. Not only did I feel the pain of loss but an immense void of wisdom. He was the dad I went to for instruction on matters ranging from marriage and family to schooling and ministry.  In 2 Timothy 3:14 Paul calls this young leader to keep drawing from the wisdom deposited from trustworthy elders, “But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it.”  I am glad to say that I sought out another father figure who was integral in helping me navigate through new challenges and responsibilities as a younger pastor. 

There is strength and safety when we learn from others who love God and live out His wisdom.  Find godly people to share with and give them permission to speak into your life.  As you have heard me say before, WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER!  In Romans 15:14 Paul says, “I myself am convinced, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with knowledge and competent to instruct one another.” Let’s allow instruction to help us in our hearts and thoughts, our homes and relationships, our faith and purity, our careers and finances, and in just about every other area that concerns us. 

There are still things for us to learn and life is a classroom not meant to be done alone!