Learning to father my kids....

As I went through this last round of Wild at Heart, I was very interested in the "parenting" aspect of my journey and how I should be fathering my children. During the weekend there were many opportunities for us to take time alone to pray and listen to God speak. During these times, we were encouraged to bring a journal and write down what God was saying to us. Being at the 10 day mark since the last camp ended, I started go back and read through my journal for a review and to keep the fire in my heart hot. I came across a very extensive journal entry that both identified some of my personal brokenness and healing as well as references on my role as a parent. I wanted to share some sections of this journal entry with you and what God was speaking in to my heart during this delicate time.

Surrender all to me. You have always had a Father walking with you that loves you..….I place this name on the stones at your feet that you may always have a reminder of where we are connected. Our connection exists through every place that your foot touches…..When you walk in darkness, you still walk – when you walk toward the light, I am there. Bestow these thoughts on those that have come from you – your sons on earth – .…. May they connect with me in your footsteps and may you point out to them the places we have traveled as Father and son.

As I read through this, I could not help but become somewhat emotional for variety reasons. The brokenness I experienced as a result of the lack of fathering that I had growing up and the freedom that I have experienced as a result of walking through that brokenness with God and letting it go. The freedom that comes from finally realizing that for a long time I believed the lie. The lie that I did not have what it takes because of the brokenness that enemy inflicted on me to take me out at very young age. The enemy was exposed and the lie dispelled - FREEDOM.

As I continued to read through this entry, God provided me with a constant reminder of his presence and our connection - every step I take. This reminds me of Numbers (I think that was the book) in the Bible where the people put items on their shoes as a reminder of God. This just dawned on me as I am typing this, so I could have some wires crossed here. Along with this reminder I am to teach my children about the experiences I have had so that they do not get taken out by the enemy the same way that I was. I am also to teach them that no matter what, God is always there to support you and teach you.

As I thought about this, I felt a little sad. I really wish that I had grown up being taught these things by my own father. Then I realized that my Father in heaven has alot more to teach me. Everything that any of us need to be taught is in God's Word. All of his footsteps are there and all his experiences detailed. Our Father is the Word and is there any time we are in need. I feel truly blessed to be right here, right now. I also feel protected by my Father. I am a more confident parent and feel like I finally know how to father my children, how to bestow on them the values and principles that are so vital to their development as they move through the different seasons in their lives. My prayer tonight is that every man come to know this freedom and that every man dispel the lie and live the life that they were meant to live. That every man father their children the way God has fathered them. You do have what it takes - just ask your Father.