Break Out the Cigars and Call Me Pappy!

If a father, a loving father to my children. 

I will love and lead them as Christ loves the Church..

Via The Joshua Commission

“Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” ~Ephesians 6:4 NIV

Fatherhood is a tough job— but it’s also one of the most fulfilling roles a man can hold. It’s intended to be the earthly illustration of God’s love through us, and for us. In His love, God illustrates that fatherhood extends beyond biological children, and adopted children that live under our roofs. It includes being a father figure for the child down the street, the young man at the office, and the new family that just moved into the neighborhood. 

Many men know the joy of holding their child in their arms when they were born. Some men have prayed for that experience, only to never realize it for themselves. Yet both groups of guys experience the joy and responsibility of fatherhood—because at it’s core, fatherhood is loving and leading. It’s spreading that DNA— Christ’s DNA around. 

Fatherhood is being present: initiating consistent, meaningful connection. 

Fatherhood is training: modeling authenticity and wisdom through our stories. 

I don’t have biological or adopted sons, but I do have a quiver full of spiritual sons and daughters (Psalms 127:3-5). This morning I got a text from one of my spiritual sons that read:

 “My mentee (spiritual son) is moved to your town for good, with his girlfriend and baby girl, he just got his forklift operator license. I was wondering if you can mentor him, he moved for a better life and to raise his daughter. This young brotha has a testimony! I love this kid, and I know he’s destined to do great things in this life. I trust you because I know you’ll point him and help him go into the right direction.” 

I’m absolutely jumping in! I can’t wait to check-in with them regularly—listening, encouraging and sharing my testimony and challenges (life stories, not just my salvation story), when he asks for counsel.

But you know what just hit me, I’m gonna get to meet my Grandson and Great-Grand Daughter (wait…am I old enough for that…lol). Break out the cigars. I’m a Great-Grand-Pappy!!! Amen!!!

THE KINGDOM MAN’S CREED

I am a Kingdom Man. I am created by God to bear His image. I am a son and viceroy for my Fathers work. I am a warrior, lover, teacher and king.

I am a Kingdom Man. Like Joshua, I will be strong and courageous. I will train my mind and body for the battles to come. I will discipline my heart, eyes and tongue to be steadfast and faithful to the calling on my life.

I am a Kingdom Man. If a husband, I love and serve my wife, if a father, a loving father to my children. I will love and lead them as Christ loves the Church. If a brother, uncle, guardian, mentor or friend, I will give honor in all of my relationships. I will lead, teach, correct and train in the spirit of righteousness.

I am a Kingdom Man. I am called to break down barriers and free others from strongholds. I am a Peace Maker. My armor is Truth, Righteousness, Grace and Humility. I will stand in the gap for my neighbor to defend gospel justice for the marginalized. 

I am a Kingdom Man. God is my provider. He has given me gifts and talents to exemplify Him with the work of my hands. I will work with diligence and excellence. My labor will be honest and its fruits purposeful.

I am a Kingdom Man with a Kingdom vision. Commissioned by Christ. My life is the Father’s. I am intentional. I will grow in my faith, be consistent in my actions and leave a legacy worthy of the race I have run.

I AM a Kingdom Man!