The father of a righteous man has great joy; he who has a wise son delights in him.
—Proverbs 23:24
Thoughts on Today’s Verse…
The greatest gift I can give my father – whether as a son or daughter – is to be like my Father in heaven, full of righteous character, gracious compassion, and faithful loving kindness. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we can become people who are characterized by “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23). Such character qualities as these honor both our Father and our earthly fathers. As children of God, let’s live into those qualities, asking for the Spirit’s help, and use those qualities and the character of our lives to bring our earthly fathers joy and our Heavenly Father delight!
My Prayer…
Holy and righteous Father, may my life please you and bring honor to my father and his name. I know, dear Father in heaven, that if I please you, it will make my earthly father’s heart glad. Please help me as I seek to know and serve you in ways that better display your character in my life. May this bring honor to my earthly father and his reputation, and bring delight to you. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan Publishing House.
