Title: Like a Father/ Topic: Leadership

Today's Reading: Matthew 28; 1 Thessalonians 1; 1 Thessalonians 2; 1 Thessalonians 3

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 2:11, 12
11 For you know that we dealt with each of you as a father deals with his own children, 12 encouraging, comforting and urging you to live lives worthy of God, who calls you into his kingdom and glory.

Observation: I love this description of how Paul and his team of leaders dealt with the Thessalonian Church. It's a great scripture for any parent to take cues from. A father (or mother) should encourage their children, comfort them and urge them to live lives of high and godly purpose. There are times when God also deals with us using much stronger rebukes and even punishments, but these verses describe his heart toward us.

Application: I want to relate to others that I have influence over in this way. When I die, I want my children to remember me as a person who was encouraging, comforting, and yet never wavering from urging them toward godliness. I want them to know that I only had thoughts of high purpose for their lives.

Prayer: Make me like you, Lord. More and more I want to become like you so that my relationship with others is a source of joy and encouragement to them. I want to be one who is excellent at “spurring one another on to good works”.
This I pray in Jesus' name, Amen.