Like Father, Like Son #383

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Now that I’m a grandpa, there’s not a visit that goes by without me being reminded of how I parented and how our grandkids remind me of their parents. When I see my son or daughter become irritated, I just want to say, “Take a breath, don’t overreact and show them the way.” Or when I see my grandson act just like his dad did at four years old, I wish I could go back and enjoy it more.

My grandsons constantly want to be around their fathers so they can do what their fathers are doing and be like them. They’re watching, learning, reenacting, and mimicking their dad’s behaviors.

I think that’s the same for all of us. We too want to be like our dads. Maybe that’s why you see so many young adults in the same line of work or loving the same sports or hobbies as their fathers.

What about our prayers? I bet you’ve started most prayers with, “Our Father,” or “Heavenly Father?” I do. We do this because we want our dad’s help, His guidance, and His protection.

This sense of need, approval, direction, and love was put in us for a reason because God’s children were created to be in union with Him, to follow Him, and to be more like Him.

Recently, I noticed something while reading John chapter five. Jesus describes His relationship with His Father in a way that is simple but powerful. He says the Son can do nothing on His own, but only what He sees the Father doing. Whatever the Father does, the Son does also. The Father loves the Son and shows Him everything He is doing. Sound familiar?

Think about that for a moment. Jesus is watching, listening, learning from His Father and then doing because He’s aligned with His Father, not choosing His own will or direction. Everything He did flowed from His relationship with the Father.

Now compare that to our lives. How often do we try to do things on our own, make decisions, take action, and then ask God to bless it or ask His forgiveness afterward? What if we spent more time watching, listening, and seeking what the Father wants before we act?

Jesus also said that the Father has given Him authority and the power to accomplish greater works. That tells me that when you are aligned with the Father, or your father, you are not limited but entrusted with doing great things. God’s not holding you back; He is preparing you for what He wants to do through you if you take off the limits you’ve put on yourself.

So, fathers, let me ask you. If someone were watching you the way my grandsons watch their dads, what would they see? Would they see someone who seeks God first, or puts himself first? Will they see someone who follows God or someone who asks God to follow? Because at the end of the day, someone is becoming like you. Show them the way.

If you want to live a legacy worth following, then visit lighthouselegacies.com to learn how. Also, check out the Living Your Legacy Podcast.