A Father's Blessing

Isaac called Jacob, and blessed him.
Genesis 28:1

In Bible times fathers placed their hands on their children's heads and spoke certain promises over them, passing on the blessing from generation to generation. It's why "Isaac called Jacob and blessed him,"and why Jacob refused to die before blessing his grandchildren (see Genesis 48:14).

Now, times may have changed but one thing remains constant: children without caring, involved fathers usually spend their lives searching for a sense of identity and self-worth. And increasingly they're finding it in the company of drug dealers, rebellious peer groups and street gangs. Instead of fulfilling their God-given destiny they become defined and labelled by a lifestyle - "runaway," "convict,""trouble maker," "addict."

Before Tupac Shakur, the rap artist known for his violent song lyrics,was gunned down in 1996 he said:

"I never knew my real father. I know for a fact if I'd had a father I'd have some discipline [and] more confidence. Your mother can't calm you down, reassure you, and show you where your manhood is. You need a man to teach you how to be a man.

"When an unidentified man was brought to Jesus for healing, before He forgave his sins or restored his health, He called him, "Son" ( Mark2:5).

Note, He didn't say, "You've got to clean up your act." Or,

"First, you must do things My way."

No, He established a relationship with the man by showing him love and acceptance. As a father you need to do the same!

Loving and accepting your children as they are right now, without conditions and condemnation, is one of the greatest gifts you can give them!