Lessons From My Pappy

In honor of Father's Day, I wanted to share a few lessons I have learned from my father. It does not escape me how blessed I am to call him my dad. I often hear young ministers call him a spiritual father and look to him for guidance. Although I tease him about this, they couldn't make a better selection. So here we go: 1. Obedience to God takes priority. My father is a very well-educated man.After pulling himself up by his bootstraps, he earned two doctorate degrees. With his degrees and his incredible people and leadership skills, many opportunities have come his way for lucrative careers, but he held steadfast to the calling God placed on him. Even though these opportunities could have created incredible financial security for his family, he knew that leaving a legacy of faithfulness for his children is much more valuable than any bank account. When it came time to take appointments in places we may not have chosen for ourselves, he made it clear to the family that you go where God sends you, and stay until He releases you. 2. The importance of roots and wings. My father never misses an opportunity for a history lesson. He loves to tell us about American, family, and church history. He does so to give us an appreciation for what our forefathers did to get us here. When I was inclined to mock those who came before me, I was reminded not to "kick my cradle". He wanted my brother and I to be thankful for trailblazers, but to begin to make our own paths as well. We were to build on what had been accomplished before, thankful for their work, but not satisfied in what they accomplished. 3. Give to those who can give you nothing in return. I was taught the importance of helping people who can't help themselves. When you seek out those people, you don't expect anything in return. Ours must be a selfless Gospel. It must never be self-serving, lest we destroy our reputation as a follower of Christ. My father has always upheld a high standard in order to make sure there is no appearance of wrong-doing. He never spent time seeking out people with the most money, or influence, or best name, instead he loves everyone the Lord brings him in contact with regardless of what the payout may be. I am so proud to have been raised by a man of such high integrity. He works hard, never makes excuses, and has a heart for lost people like I have never seen. I love him so dearly. Thank you, pappy for all you have taught me.