As a father of teenagers, I have seen some of the stages of life my children will experience. I have seen how my priorities have evolved as they aged, from concern about their physical safety, to desire for academic success, or success with other activities, sports, music, etc. However, the most important hope and prayer, that is always underneath, but emerges as they age is the prayer that they find and build their own relationship and faith in Jesus Christ.

The Bible tells us, that the best way to do that is by building our own faith. Proverbs 14:26 says, “Those who fear the Lord are secure; he will be a refuge for their children.”

Today is my dad’s birthday, and I don’t know of any father who lives this example better than my dad. He has put is trust in the Lord and our family has weathered the storms of life in the refuge God has provided.

Proverbs 4:4 says, “The father of godly children has cause for joy.”

From all of us, your children and grandchildren, who you provided a refuge by your fear of the Lord, and put on the right path, Happy Birthday! Dad. We hope that you are filled with joy.

Dear Lord, Faith in you is what gives us our security, and most importantly our Salvation. Thank you for being our refuge and keeping us and our children in your care. Thank you for another year of blessing my dad and blessing us through him, we pray for many more. In Jesus’ name, Amen.