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“Sacrifice: A Prerequisite of Family Leadership”

Thoughts for Today:

The phrase, "be men of courage" comes from the Greek word ANDRIZOMAI, which literally means: "to act like a man". However, in the updated NIV translation (I prefer and use the 1984 version), this instruction has been rendered gender neutral: "be courageous." So Paul's command could be applied to everyone. While this advice might be applicable to either men or women, I believe the teaching of our passage today is specifically directed toward men.

So men, let me ask you a question: "What is the key to being a man as defined by Scripture?" We find the answer in Deuteronomy 31:7 (Moses offering guidance to Joshua): "Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the Lord swore to their forefathers to give them, and you must divide it among them as their inheritance." In the same way, the Bible tells us our families will follow us if we pay attention to what the Lord has said: "...be strong and courageous."

But what does it mean to be courageous in this day and age of gender neutrality and blurring of the line between traditionally defined male and female roles? Once again we look to Scripture for the answer and example. In Job 1:5, we find that Job sacrificed for his children daily: "When a period of feasting had run its course, Job would send and have them purified. Early in the morning he would sacrifice a burnt offering for each of them, thinking, 'Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.' This was Job's regular custom."

We aren't required to kill a bull and offer burnt offerings any longer. But it is critically essential that we sacrifice our time, comfort, treasure, and focus of our energy -- all for the benefit of our wives and children. In the treacherous days in which we live, with all the perils of this world set to ensnare our families, doing anything less is simply not an option. Sacrifice is what it means to be strong and courageous. It's also a prerequisite of family leadership.

Questions to Ponder:

When was the last time you set aside what you wanted for the benefit of your family? If you said, "Today and every day," then you are on the right track. If not, it might be time to look at how to lead your family according to God's Word. (Deuteronomy 31:8: "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.")

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.