A Father’s True Aim
A Father’s True Aim
“What can we do to perform the works of God?” they asked. Jesus replied, “This is the work of God—that you believe in the One He has sent.” (John 6:28–29)
Measuring Success
A father’s definitions of his children’s success has a profound impact on his kids. These definitions guide how he spends time with them, the criteria for his encouragement, and the basis for his rebukes.
How do you measure success in your children? Do you focus on GPA, social adjustment, or proper manners? Do you emphasize your kids’ sports accomplishments, college aspirations, and future career? What matters most?
Through Jesus, our heavenly Father both simplified and clearly communicated His priority for us. When Christ’s followers asked about God’s priorities for them, they showed an expectation of multiple answers by using the word “works”: “What can we do to perform the works of God?” Jesus, however—the same Savior who summed up all of the Law and the Prophets into two easily remembered commands (see Matt. 22:37–40)—responded simply: believe in Me.
God’s Scorecard
Is God’s priority for His children really that simple? Yes! The Lord desires for us to have a straightforward, wholehearted, and childlike faith. And though His priority for us is simple, its impact is profound. Followers of Christ are called to love Him with everything they are and to love their neighbors as themselves. That’s the primary way success should be measured for us and for our children.
Bottom Line
God’s priority for your children does not involve report cards, accomplishments, or stat sheets. His priority for your kids is that they believe in His Son.