Add Some Manure

21 / Sun  |  Read Luke 16:6-9

Overview: It would be easy to pre-judge this message and say it stinks, but then you’d be missing out on its relevance for growth as a Christian (hint: think fertilizer).

22 / Mon – A dad’s responsibilities  |  Read Phil 4:19 / 2 Thess 3:3 / Ps 16:11

Father’s Day can bring a mix of feelings, based on the kind of relationship you’ve had with your own dad. The responsibilities of fatherhood include… being your child’s provider, being their protector, and being present. If your dad was lacking in some of these areas, it can make you hesitant to fully trust God, your heavenly Father. But think back. How has He been all these and more for you? No matter how old you get, you can rely fully on His unconditional love and care for you.

23 / Tue – Seeing the contrast  |  Read Psalm 103:13-14

If you grew up with a stern father who had high expectations and you made mistakes, you may have thought yourself to be a failure. How does that misbelief compare with this description of your heavenly Father? Do you sometimes find yourself becoming impatient with others when they don’t measure up? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you follow your Father’s example. Extend His kindness and compassion to those who believe they are not worthy. Doing so will also bless your Father’s heart!

24 / Wed – Do you hint or come right out and ask?  |  Read Matthew 7:9-11

Some feel they have to twist God’s arm so He will give them what they want or need. Seeing this misbelief in print does make it sound a little ridiculous, doesn’t it? Here in these verses, Jesus describes how earthly parents respond when their children ask for something. Do you realize how much more willing your heavenly Father is to give you good gifts? It delights Him when you ask. So be bold and ask with the right motives.

25 / Thu – What kind of dad is that?!  |  Read Genesis 22:1-19

You are probably familiar with this story from Abraham’s life. While this might be unthinkable in our time, back then there were false gods and false religions that required a child sacrifice before granting the petitioner’s request. It boggles the mind that God would ask this of Abraham, but even more incredible was his willingness to obey. Hebrews 11:17-19 tells us what was going on in his mind. How willing are you to let go of things or people you tend to value more than God Himself?

26 / Fri – A good dad corrects his children  |  Read Proverbs 3:11-12 / Hebrews 12:7-11

Dads who want the best for their children will discipline them when it is needed. How has God corrected you in the past? Did you get angry? Were you tempted to think He didn’t love you because unpleasant things happened? Real love will do the hard thing because it is in the best interest of the child. Next time you are tempted to blame God for what He has allowed, humble yourself and ask Him to reveal what needs to be changed, avoided, or discarded. He disciplines you because He truly loves you.

27 / Sat – Forgive me?  |  Read Matthew 6:14

When your dad caught you doing something wrong as a kid, were you anxious for him to forgive you? God’s forgiveness is full and free, but not fully accessible when there is unforgiveness in your heart toward others. Is the Lord being unreasonable to expect this? Absolutely not, He knows there can be no room until you empty your resentments over what others have done to you. If you feel unsure of God’s forgiveness after repenting, ask Him to show you anyone you have not fully forgiven. You’ll be amazed at the freedom you feel when you let those things go.