A chip off the old block

“Fathers, do not embitter your children, or they will become discouraged.” Colossians 3:21

A chip off the old block is said about someone who is very similar to their father either in their physical characteristics or their personality. This is an analogy of a chip from a piece of wood or brick which would be of the same composition as to where it came from.

My father was very present in my life. He wasn’t a big talker but when he spoke, you better listen. He wasn’t an educated man by the world's standards but he was very smart and could fix anything. Being a farmer caused him to become a “backyard engineer” as he called himself.

Unfortunately, today there are thousands of children who grow up without a father present in their life. This is an important component missing in God’s design for the nucleus family. Fathers are to be role models for their children to look up to, aspire to be and admire. We have seen a breakdown in families with the absence of fathers and the ramifications are evident within our society.

The good news is that even when we don’t have an earthly father to encourage us, we do have a Heavenly Father who does. 2 Corinthians 6:18 says, “I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” As we grow in our faith, we’re recognized as God’s children because we emulate His characteristics. He calls us His and loves us unconditionally … always.