Becoming a Praying FatherSample

Praying Fathers Affirm

Today’s scripture is full of meaning. Not only is it the first reference we have of Jesus praying, but it’s a front-row seat to an intimate moment between Jesus and His Heavenly Father. Jesus had come to the Jordan River to be baptized by His cousin – John the Baptist.

After Jesus was baptized, the heavens opened and the Holy Spirit descended on Him. It looked like a dove. Then God spoke three key phrases that are packed with meaning:

• This is my Son… Many people doubted who Jesus really was. Growing up, Jesus may, Himself, have wondered who He really was. But God made sure that everyone, including Jesus, knew that He was a part of God’s family!
• …who I love… If there had been any doubt in Jesus’ mind before, this erased it all. Jesus was loved by His Heavenly Father!
• …with whom I am well pleased. God was affirming to Jesus that He was doing the right thing.

How often does your son long to hear these three phrases from your mouth? Does your son know you are glad that he is a part of your family? Does he know you love him? Does he know you are proud of him?

God gives us a great template for speaking into the hearts of our children. They long for a sense of belonging. They desire to know we love them. They need to know we are proud of them.

One of the fondest memories I have of my father occurred just a few hours before he died. Knowing the end was near, he gathered our family together to share his last words with each of us. When he came to me, he said, “Michael, you have done well.”

I couldn’t help but think of today’s scripture and the power those words had on Jesus. The same is true for our sons (and daughters)!

PRAY to thank God your son is a part of your family. Be specific!

PRAY an expression of love that you have for your son.

PRAY you will have an opportunity to show your son you are proud of him.

Don’t stop there: go and tell your son that he belongs, is loved, and that you are proud of him!