While sitting in church today, I realized what an amazing example of Christ I have in my life–my dad. Don’t get me wrong, this isn't the first time I have come to this realization; I just sometimes forget how truly blessed I am to have a dad like him.
The guest speaker, Pastor Ted Cunningham, was speaking about being a reliable man and how many times in the church today we are lacking reliable, Christ-like men. He discussed five ways to be a reliable man and in each way, the picture in my head was that of my dad…
1.) A reliable man submits to authority. I have watched countless times as my dad has submitted to the authority in his life; even when it was difficult. In turn, I have had the joy of watching him be placed in a position of authority. No matter what position he holds, however, he submits to the authority of the Father and those in positions of authority.
2.) A reliable man produces more than he consumes. My dad is a giver. In times of hardship, he gives all he has. In times of prosperity, he gives even more. I pray to be that kind of giver.
3.) A reliable man provides for his family. I have watched my dad work scrubbing toilets in a church and I have watched him work as a CEO of a company. To watch him, you wouldn’t know the difference because his character and his work ethic are constant. No matter where he works or what he does, my dad does it for the glory of God and to provide for his family.
4.) A reliable man enjoys life with his wife. I pray to someday have the kind of loving relationship that my parents share. The greatest example for what a Christ-centered marriage should look like doesn’t come from any book or movie; instead it comes from the years of watching my parents interact. They are more in love today than they were 28 years ago and it is transparent to everyone who sees them.
5.) A reliable man disciples his kids. My dad has discipled us by example and by the Word of God. I have been privileged to grow up watching a man be the same person in our home as he is to the outside world. I have watched a man who has stood by his convictions regardless of the popularity of that stance. I have watched a man who loves his kids and loves my mom as a man should.
So thank you, dad, for being that reliable man and setting a Christ-like example in all that you do. Without the example and support of you and mom, I wouldn’t be able to take the risk I’m about to take for this next year.
