Co-Pastor Ezekiel Perez | November 5, 2024
The Fountain Apostolic Church
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Proverbs 22:6It's possible to be a man after God's own heart, making heaven your home, but leave a mess behind of your family.
Seek to understand the impact addiction & trauma plays on our children.
Psalm 147:3
We ought to provide a safe & stable environment for our children.
Proverbs 22:6
Our families need to heal through connection & communication.
James 1:19
Provide resources for emotional & spiritual healing for our children.
2 Timothy 1:7
We ought to model a life of faith & hope to our children.
Romans 15:13King David's Failures in Emotional Availability as a Father
Lack of Discipline and Justice with Amnon and Tamar
Event: Amnon’s assault on Tamar (2 Samuel 13:1-22).
David’s Response: Though angered, David took no disciplinary action against Amnon.
Impact: Tamar was left without justice, and Absalom harbored deep resentment, ultimately killing Amnon (2 Samuel 13:23-29).
Reflection: David’s passivity led to unresolved pain and family division.
Alienation of Absalom
Event: Absalom avenges Tamar, kills Amnon, and flees (2 Samuel 13:37-39).
David’s Response: Though David longed for Absalom’s return, he kept him at a distance for two years after his return to Jerusalem (2 Samuel 14:24, 28).
Impact: This estrangement contributed to Absalom’s rebellion and death (2 Samuel 15-18).
Reflection: David’s inability to reconcile with Absalom created a rift that ultimately led to tragic consequences.
Neglect of Adonijah
Event: Adonijah attempts to seize the throne without David's knowledge (1 Kings 1).
David’s Response: He had "never displeased him" by holding him accountable (1 Kings 1:6).
Impact: This lack of guidance allowed Adonijah to feel entitled, leading to his eventual downfall.
Reflection: David’s failure to correct Adonijah reveals the need for active parental involvement and boundaries.
Failure to Comfort and Engage with His Children Personally
Observation: David was often distant and preoccupied with his role as king, limiting his emotional engagement.
Impact: His children experienced instability, division, and betrayal, often lacking consistent guidance or support.
Reflection: David’s emotional absence led to destructive family dynamics, underscoring the need for fathers to provide both stability and emotional support.
Reflection on David’s Legacy as a Father
Lesson: David’s story demonstrates that even a strong relationship with God does not replace the need for attentive, engaged parenting.
Takeaway: Spiritual leaders are called to balance both faith and family responsibilities, being present and available to nurture healthy relationships.
