The Power of a Father’s Blessing

In biblical times, a father’s blessing meant everything. It was not just a show of favor but it was the passing on of an inheritance and in many cases wishing that child a long and prosperous life. We think of a blessing as a verbal affirmation, however it’s much more than that; the father’s blessing carries with it a lasting impact that is revealed from generation to generation.  
 
“Isaac said, “Behold now, I am old and I do not know the day of my death. Now then, please take your gear, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field and hunt game for me; and prepare a savory dish for me such as I love, and bring it to me that I may eat, so that my soul may bless you before I die.”” (Genesis 27:2–4)
 
Jacob and Esau were brothers and as Isaac, their father, had grown old and close to death it came time for Isaac to give his blessings. The oldest son would receive the greater blessing and the younger not so much. Jacob wanted the greater blessing from his father at all cost. So Jacob deceived his father and stole Esau’s blessing. When Esau found out he was enraged and this is how the war between the Jews and Edomites (Idumeans) began. How many families have gone to war over inheritances?
 
Father’s today can, and should, bless their children with a continuous blessing. The father’s blessing is not only words of affirmation but intentional instruction that will set the trajectory of their child’s life on a good path. True blessings are not tied to performance or an event. It is words of affirmation like “You are my son and I love you and you will be blessed if you follow God as your grow older.” If these words are tied to an action then your child will think that they need to perform, and then if and when they fail they lose value in your sight. This can be crushing for children. Fathers, deliver words of blessing and affirmation just because they are your child and not based on performance.
 
Another way to bless your children is through prayer. Do you pray blessing over your children?  Imagine what it is like to pray blessing over your child in their presence and out loud! Much like the patriarchs of the Bible, you have the power to speak blessing in the life of your child, proving that you are behind them and you want them to be successful. Blessing your child will give them confidence even after you are gone because they have heard your heart.
 
The power of a father’s blessing is revealed in the lives of children that know they are loved.
 
Pastor Cary Wacker

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