How A Father Honors God

	By Garry Knighton Church of Christ/North - Shreveport, La.
	HOW A FATHER HONORS GOD

INTRODUCTION:
- The Bible has much to say about fathers.
- The pages of history ring with the greatness of the early fathers and their high place in God's sight.
- Abraham is recognized as "Father Abraham" because of his leadership in faith.
- This morning, while honoring fathers is on our minds, let's notice HOW A FATHER HONORS GOD.

A FATHER HONORS GOD BY ASSUMING THE PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE FAMILY. (HEAD OF THE HOUSE)
- Ephesians 5:23.
  - All major decisions of the family should be made by the man of the house.
  - The husband is the head of the household.
- Leadership in the family has always been by men.
  - God's family - (the church) - elders lead.
    - Preaching - men.
    - Leading prayer - "men in every place..." I Timothy 2:8.
  - The children should always see that the father is in control. (This should be evident.)
  - The children will one day have to lead with the leadership learned at home.
    - How will they lead?
- Instruction in the home is primarily the father's task.
  - Ephesians 6:4.
  - Proverbs 4:1.
  - Deuteronomy 6:4-12.
- An example of leadership by the father:
  - Acts 16:29-34.
    - The family realized his ability as a leader.
    - They placed confidence in his decision.
A FATHER HONORS GOD BY "LOVING HIS WIFE".
- Ephesians 5:25-33.
- I Peter 3:5-12.
  - Sarah called Abraham Lord.
  - Give honor unto the woman that your prayers may not be hindered.
A MAN HONORS GOD BY MAKING MATURE DECISIONS.
- Making unselfish decisions.
  - What is best for OUR service to God?
  - What is best for my wife?
  - What is best for my family?
- Joshua 24:15.

CONCLUSION:
- Are you, as a father, honoring God as a father?
- As a father, have you and are you fulfilling your rightful place as the head of the home?
- Are you standing in God's way while He is trying to develop your family?