A Powerful Father's Blessing

“A Powerful Father’s Blessing”

(Father’s Day Message)

Genesis 48: 1-22

INTRO: 1. After Joseph had been given the throne, second only to Pharaoh himself, he didn’t seek revenge—He sought his father.

a. Sought after the one who had nurtured the faith in him that had brought him through all the difficulties.

b. For 16 years, Jacob lived peaceably in Egypt with his son Joseph.

c. As the end approached Joseph took his sons to be blessed by his father.

2. If anyone knew the importance of blessings of a father, it was Jacob…who tricked his own father into giving him the blessings over his brother Esau.

a. His life was a result of that blessing.

b. His success was a result of that blessing.

c. His families future is a result of that blessing…generations where linked by that blessing.

d. Jacob also knew that he was an important link in continuing his father’s blessing.

3. On his deathbed, Jacob didn’t desire to leave his family the goods he had collected or the wisdom he had come to know…the blessing of God on their lives (His provision…His favor).

4. Scripturally the father’s role is the spiritual leader of the household (minister/priest).

a. The blessing was conveyed by the laying on of hands… as priest or minister.

b. The blessing was a petition before God… as an intercessor.

c. The blessing was a declaration of faith…as a prophet.

5. If as a father you wait until your deathbed to bring blessing to your children, your words will be meaningless.

a. Jacob’s words and blessing was powerful because his life backed them up.

6. How can we bless our household?

I. BLESS THEM WITH AN IMPERFECT FATHER

a. Jacob was far from perfect… guilty of deception, failure… even his limp served as reminder of his imperfection.

b. Your kids aren’t looking for you to be perfect.

A. AN IMPERFECT FATHER IS APPROACHABLE

1. Don’t be afraid to let those around you know you are human.

2. No one can relate to perfection.

3. Lets others… especially your kids know… that you face problems and failure in your life.

B. AN IMPERFECT FATHER IS FALLIBLEs

1. Don’t be afraid to say “I’m sorry, I was wrong.”

ILL. One of the greatest treasures in my past is a letter of apology from my Dad that resulted from an argument in which he was more right than wrong. But I was impacted by the fact that my Dad was man enough to apologize even to his own son.

2. When we admit we where wrong it opens the door for others to admit they where wrong and brings healing and reconciliation.

II. BLESS THEM WITH AN AFFIRMING FATHER

a. We are connected to our father’s words all the days of our lives (Complaints/praises)

b. Jacob in blessing his children and grandchildren verbally affirmed their place of greatness in God’s plan.

c. Our heavenly father knows the power of affirmation…

“This is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased.”

A. AFFIRM THEIR IDENTITY

1. The heavenly father was quick to affirm the Son’s identity.

2. Jacob let them know they where special because of two things… they where his sons and God’s chosen.

3. Let them know that it’s special to you for them to be your child.

4. Children first find their identity in their parents… lay a strong foundation.

5. All our relationships need affirming.

6. Children you need to affirm your parents identity… “I’m glad you’re my Dad/Mom.”

B. AFFIRM THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

1. As Jacob blessed them he emphasized the strengths he had seen in them.

2. Affirmation has the power to build self-confidence.

3. Learn the nack for identifying and celebrating your children’s strengths.

4. I read a book the other day that talked about the change in relationship that takes place after the kids marry and leave the house… they don’t stop needing you. They just need you in a different role than before. We move from being teachers to being coaches and cheer-leaders.

C. AFFIRM THEIR FUTURE

1. Through the anointing of the Holy Ghost, Jacob would actually prophesy over them all giving them a powerful hope and encouragement for tomorrow and their individual places therein.

2. We must affirm what our kids are becoming and let them know we have faith in their future.

3. Let them know there future hinges not on their talents, dreams, or even their gusto but in their God.

III. BLESS THEM WITH A WORSHIPPING FATHER

Heb. 11:21 By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshiped, leaning upon the top of his staff.

a. Even when barely enough strength to stand…he gave his last strength to worship God.

b. Our families know if worship has a place in our lives and how important it is to us.