Not long ago, I was drawn into a spirited discussion about the parenting concerns of mothers and fathers: Mothers tend to worry about their child’s safety; fathers focus on their child’s success. A mother is concerned that her child be loved, while fathers push their children hard in a world where failure is easy and success is difficult.
The Thessalonian believers were Paul’s spiritual sons and daughters (Acts 17:1-4). He nurtured these infant believers (1 Thessalonians 2:9) until strong opposition forced him to leave the city abruptly (Acts 17:5-10).
In the brief time he spent with them, what kind of parent was Paul? He revealed a tender side that softened his hard and harsh no-nonsense image (Philippians 3:2; 2 Corinthians 10:6-11, 13:2). “We were like a mother feeding and caring for her own children” (1 Thessalonians 2:7). With the tender affection of a nursing mother, he told the young believers of his deep love: “We loved you so much that we shared with you not only God’s Good News but our own lives, too” (1 Thessalonians 2:8).
But Paul remained that fatherly disciplinarian (Deuteronomy 8:5). “We treated each of you as a father treats his own children” (1 Thessalonians 2:11). As a tender and compassionate father (Psalm 103:13), Paul used praise, reason, exhortations, admonishments, and good counsel to bring his children to the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord (Ephesians 6:4). God’s Word makes it clear that discipline is vital in spiritual growth (Hebrews 12:5-12; 1 Thessalonians 2:12).
This then is the goal for all parents: We desire our children to live worthy (1 Thessalonians 2:12), fruitful lives that honor and please the Lord in every way (Colossians 1:10).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Luke 22:1-13
More:
Use Colossians 1:10 as a prayer for your physical or spiritual children. Pray that they will grow and mature, knowing God better and better.
Next:
Which parent (father or mother) has had the greater influence and impact on you? Why? As a parent, how will you be instrumental in the spiritual development and maturity of your own children?
mike wittmer on September 12, 2011 at 8:14 am
This is a helpful explanation of how God embodies the best of what we have to offer–both male and female. I only wonder if there is a difference between a father’s view toward his sons and his daughters. I worry more about my daughter’s safety and security than about my sons. Maybe that’s just me?