BIBLICAL FATHERHOOD--THE GREAT NEED OF THE WORLD 11g) THE SHEPHERDING FATHER IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE TO HIS SHEEP.

We are not guaranteed to have a bed of roses every day of our lives. Quite the opposite. Even as it was in the life of our Savior, we can also expect to go through some troublesome times. 2 Timothy 3:12 says, "They that live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution."

Fathers, as family shepherds we must always be available to each member of our family, especially when they go through sickness, accident, or great emotional trials or stress. None of us know what the future holds, but as they hymn says, "We know who holds the future."

As good shepherds of our flock we must be prepared, if necessary, to give our very lives for the sheep that God has put in our charge. We must never stand aloof or be too busy to attend to their needs for counsel, comfort, concern, and our presence and loving touch. This is what fatherhood is all about. Never let it be said about your fatherhood that you did not care to relate or to be with your children. They most desperately need you.

Psalm 23:4 says, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: FOR THOU ART WITH ME."

Be encouraged.

Colin Campbell