Father Eyes

 

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He stopped; picked up the piece of paper I was drawing on and after a minute gruffly said.

“Keep drawing like that and you’ll make a lot of money some day.”

It was the only compliment (as cold as it was) that I ever received from my father. My story of living in a family of abuse is well documented in this blog (see here). The relationship with my father wasn’t a healthy one and we never reconciled our differences before he died. As a young man, I tried to run away from any connection that I had with him…I wanted nothing to do with him.

I wanted to be a baseball player; it didn’t pan out. I even tried to be a construction worker; I didn’t have those skills. I traveled in a Christian rock band; we disbanded after 3 years…the funny thing is that…

I became an artist.

Even thought he wasn’t a Christian, even though he was a cruel and harsh man…he did see something in me. Father God used my dad (as hard as it was for me to believe) to reach me with a message of purpose for my life. If Father God can speak such life through such difficult and cruel times…

How can I doubt His words now?

So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him. Matthew 7:11 NLT

How about you do you doubt the words the Father says about you? How can I pray for you?

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Comments

Trek23rider said…
I have to admit to spending too much time and caring too much about what others thought. While that has never totally left me (I still struggle with it), I am much more comfortable knowing what the Father thinks of me and how He loves and accepts me. My father was on my "side" until I began to choose basketball over baseball and he began to choose work over me. So glad for a loving Father who doesn't choose sides (except to be in my corner all the time).
Jay Cookingham said…
I love that thought about the Father being in our corner, what a powerful expression of His choosing us. Thanks Bill!
Michael said…
Yes, you are an artist, Jay, in both the visual arts and those that are seen, not with mortal eyes, but eyes spiritual. Thank you for always encouraging us on...
TCAvey said…
God's love for us is so wonderful. Knowing my son helps me understand the love God has for us more every day!
Thanks for sharing. God bless.
floyd said…
What a perfect example of God's blessings, even during the seemingly impossible times. While I don't claim to have it all figured out, it seems obvious that the tough times you endured as a kid have made you the man you are today... and God has used you to bless countless others with all of your gifts. I'm proud to be one of that many.


Awesome Jay
Jay Cookingham said…
Appreciate those kinds words Michael. I want more of His eyesight so I can be a greater encourager!
Jay Cookingham said…
Understanding and "knowing" our children is a great reflection the Father's love TC!
Jay Cookingham said…
Although no kid should ever have to experience what I did...I am grateful for what I have learned through those times. The restoration of His love is a mighty work for sure. Thanks my brother....glad to be counted as a friend of yours!
Craig Stumpf said…
Our Father gives us so much - way beyond what we deserve!!!
Jay Cookingham said…
Oh YES! So much more...love that about Him! Thanks Bro'
Phil said…
I'm glad you found your calling, I've been encouraged by getting to know you through these posts and your comments. This is a great reminder that God is always speaking and using unexpected things to show us His desire. Thanks for sharing this!
Jay Cookingham said…
Appreciate that Phil! When God speaks, life happens and I'm glad the Father speaks to us. Getting to learn about you as well, is a very cool thing indeed bro!
jasonS said…
Great reminder that the truth is the truth no matter the vessel. We can try to run from it because we didn't like the messenger, but our Father heals and restores is such incredible ways. Thanks Jay.
Jay Cookingham said…
Truth comes from the Father's heart bro'...we just have to be willing to receive it! Thanks, Jason!
Dan Black said…
Great passage in Matthew, I have leaned on that passage a lot in my life. I don't doubt Gods words because He has my best interest in mind.
Jay Cookingham said…
He sure does Dan...His words are full of His love and purpose for us! Thanks bro'!

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