As we all recall, Adam was the first man created in the Garden of Eden. After disobeying God, and being banished from the garden, he and his wife went on to begin a new life. Perhaps what they didn’t realize was how far-reaching the consequences of their disobedience would be. Their actions had brought sin into the world, and they would soon find out, firsthand, the pain and destruction sin brings.

As a first-time father, I can imagine the joy Adam felt at the birth of his first son, Cain. Regardless of the mistakes parents have made, the birth of our children always seem to restore hope and joy. Later, a second son was born, and his name was Abel. I am sure both Adam and Eve were so grateful to the Lord for the great blessing of parenthood, as they watched their sons grow and play together. Little did they know how the sins of their past would catch up to them! As Cain and Abel grew, jealousy took root in Cain’s heart because Abel found favor in the eyes of the Lord. This led Cain to become the first murderer, as he killed his own brother.

God has given fathers a special responsibility as leaders in our homes. The consequences of our actions, whether good or bad, will have an impact on our children and the generations to follow (Numbers 14:18). We would be wise to take heed to some of the lessons we can learn from Adam:

1. A father’s obedience to the Lord can be the perfect example of obedience for our children.

2. God see’s our actions and there is no hiding from him. Therefore, it is important to be fathers that model integrity and encourage our children to do the same.

3. We must be responsible for our actions. While there will always be consequences, either good or bad, we must come before God with humility, confessing our mistakes, accept God’s forgiveness and mercy, and keep going forward.

Our children will learn to love as we, the parents, love God above all else, and in turn love those around us. Let our example always be one that leads our children closer to Christ.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for your mercies which are new every morning. I ask that you give us the courage to do what is right and always walk humbly, in obedience, with you. Help us be more like you, and in so doing, be godly examples for our children to follow. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1. Micah 6:8 (NLT).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.