Becoming a Praying FatherParaugs

Praying Fathers Intercede

I recall a conversation with a soon-to-be-first-time dad. He was anxiously awaiting the big day when his son would arrive. All he wanted was for his wife and baby boy to get through the experience safely. Since my children are a little older, he was looking for some advice, and he asked me a question, “What is the most important thing I can do as a first-time dad?”

My mind raced to all of the traditional answers: Love his mom, hold down a good job to provide for your family, set a good example to him as he grows up, and establish family traditions your son can carry with him.

While all of those are admirable things to do, for some reason I didn’t offer any of them. I simply said, “You need to pray. Pray now. Pray when he is born. Pray for him every day of his life.” I’m not sure this was the answer he was looking for, but I believe it’s the best one I could have given. Today we read about a man named Job. He’d acquired a lot of livestock, a brood of kids (7 sons and 3 daughters!), and had followed God while he’d maintained a sparkling reputation to those who knew him. Quite a guy.

As we read Job 1:1-5, two additional things stand out about Job’s life. First, he enjoyed being with his children. His family had a tradition of taking turns holding feasts at each of the sons’ homes. I can only imagine the memories made and stories told around those tables.

Secondly, Job knew his children weren’t perfect. So we see Job in verse 5 offering sacrifices early in the morning and praying for the sins of his children. He did this regularly. It’s a good idea to follow Job’s example.

PRAY you will develop a relationship with your children so strong that when they are adults you’ll both enjoy being with each other.

PRAY for your children’s failures, shortcomings, and sins each day.