George Davidiuk spoke to us about Fatherhood and the best picture of a Father in the Scripture who is our Heavenly Father. He used the story of the prodigal son and illustrated the perfect fathers love for his children. Notes: Profile of the Father 1. He is Understanding! Luke 15:20 “But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him.” - He “sees” the true condition of his son. - How is your understanding? Are you aware of where your child is now? Do you know who their friends are? What direction they are headed? What condition they are in? 2. He is Compassionate! Luke 15:20 “...His father saw him and his heart was filled with compassion.” - He is deeply touched when he saw what sin did to his son. - Greatest need of your child: to know they are loved by you! 3. He is Approachable! Luke 15:20 “But while he was still a long way off, his father ... ran to him.” - He runs to his son first! - Approachability removes their fear of telling you of their failures. - A parent must be a great life coach! - - Trainer - Discipline - - Instructor - Teaching - - Mentor – Model; example 4. He is Affectionate! Luke 15:20 “His father ... threw himself on his neck and kissed him!” - He is not embarrassed to show physical affection with his son. - A hug heals, especially after discipline! - It’s a mistake to withhold physical affection; especially when expectations are not met. - You can be as spiritual as you want... but sometimes a hug goes farther than a lecture or a sermon! 5. He raises Self-esteem! Luke 15:22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him!” - The father returns him to the place of self respect. - Sin - lowers a child’s self esteem - You can give value to your child. Wearing torn, poor clothing can be a sign of “giving up” 6. He motivates Achievement! Luke 15:22 “The father said to his servants... “Put a ring on his hand!” - He restores authority to his son. Pharaoh – Joseph in Egypt - Encourage your child to make decisions and reach their goals. - Release your child to do what they were born to do! 7. He puts Grace over Law! Luke 15:22 “The father said to his servants... “Put shoes on his feet!” - He frees his son from slavery Gal 4:22 –2 women who had sons - Slave woman — Hagar LAW - Free woman — Sarah GRACE - Trust must be taught with accountability 8. He Loves to Celebrate! Luke 15:22 “Bring the fattened calf and kill it, and let us eat and celebrate! - He creates an atmosphere of JOY in his home! - Jesus – speaks of joy when what was LOST is now found! - Create happy memories with your children! Zeph 3:17 “The Lord thy God in the midst of you is mighty; He will save, and rejoice over you with joy; He will rest in his love, He will joy over you with singing!” To stay connected with George: https://www.facebook.com/georgedavidiuk