About a year ago this week my youngest daughter Kiara’ left headed back to school after a good summer visit. Now the fact that Kiara’ is my baby girl, by default she knows I am pretty much putty in her hands. You need to know I love being a dad. My three daughters, well they are my greatest treasure next to my wife.
When it comes to Kiara’, over the years she has always proven to be a true daddy’s girl. Very touchy feely! She sits close when we are watching a DVD. Kiara’ has driven more hours for me on a golf cart than either of my boys. You better believe she has my heart.
However, while Kiara’ had always been a great student; she struggled some when she first started high school. Call it growing pains, she was smelling herself or just didn’t realize how challenging the transition would be. Actually, Kiara’ chose to continue a couple of extra-curricular activities which cut into homework time. Mom and I made suggestions and encouraged a change throughout the school year as we watched progress reports and grades slide. But we left the final decision to Kiara’.
In this life the Father wants us to choose Him over our own desires. He wants us to wake up and give thanks, rather than thinking about getting the coffee maker set up to brew. He wants us to read and study His word, instead of reaching for our favorite newspaper or magazine. When put into practice the Father first, He blesses our efforts which add peace to our daily walk.
Mom and I used these analogies when helping Kiara’ see where her true priorities lie. Kiara’ learned she had to be accountable to herself and giving her best for the Saviour who loves her. Plus, the daddy’s girl was jeopardizing her touchy feely time. As you can imagine, all is well now. A year later Kiara’ is back to achieving. However it wasn’t a teacher or principal or ministry leader who took the lead with our daughter. It all began at home.
Let’s each be diligent to remember how important it is to keep the Father first in our lives. Rom. 5:8-9 God commandeth his love toward us…we shall be saved from wrath through him.
See you next Sunday.
MJ