ON SPIRITUAL FATHERHOOD (IV)
“A third time the Lord called, “Samuel!” And Samuel got up and went to Eli and said, “Here I am; you called me.” Then Eli realized that the Lord was calling the boy. So Eli told Samuel, “Go and lie down, and if he calls you, say, ‘Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.’ ” So Samuel went and lay down in his place.” 1 Samuel 3:8-9 NIV
Yesterday, we explored the role of a spiritual father and the responsibility that comes with it.
Today, our theme scripture highlights the vital importance of humility in the heart of a father. While it’s significant to impart wisdom and knowledge to those you mentor, it takes a deeper love for God and obedience to His will to recognize when your apprentice is ready to step into the position you hold.
This was true for Eli, whom God stopped speaking to because of his failure to discipline his sons. Sadly, this situation still happens today, and Paul gave a strong instruction regarding it: “[An overseer] must manage his own family well, ensuring his children obey him, and he must do so in a manner worthy of full respect” (1 Timothy 3:4 NIV).
I’ve often reminded those entrusted to me that no man or woman of God owns people. We are called to steward the souls of men only as long as God entrusts them to us, trusting Him to move in their hearts as He sees fit. This doesn’t mean discipline isn’t necessary, but many fathers face their greatest test when it becomes difficult to discern whether it’s time to pass the baton, or if those in your care have outgrown a particular grace on your life and need to transition.
It takes self control and divine wisdom to discern such a time and when it has come, seek the Lord and trust that He is able to keep all that is committed to Him until Christ’s return.
Prayer: Father, I thank You for this word. I lift up all fathers and sons who are in a season of transition. I pray that they may discern Your will and be willing to obey. May their spirits remain humble, and their hearts be filled with peace, knowing that a future full of hope awaits them. Let them remember that Christ is the ultimate reward, all for the glory of Your name. Amen!
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• James 3:1
• 1 Samuel 3
• 1 Timothy 3:1-6
