Spring arrived early this year and so did the strong desire to get out and ride!  Like many other people I found myself eager to get my motorcycle out of winter storage and back on to the road.  Unfortunately, the battery had gone down and there was no power.  I decided to phone the friend whom I had purchased the bike from and ask him about getting it charged up.  His advice “Read the owner’s manual!”   Smiling, I thought to myself… “Thanks a lot.”  Well, with no other options, I did something radical.  I read it!  I got my tools, charged the battery, got it running, and have been enjoying every sunny day that I can!  Mostly, I enjoy taking my sweet wife for a ride, even if it is just a short run out to the grocery store.

Did you know that the Creator of all things has given us an “Owner’s Manual”?  God has actually written out everything that we need to know!  His book includes an introduction to planet earth, chapters of history, poetry, practical instructions for the family, men, women, children, social and political order, Theology and lots of prophecy.  As God, we would expect that He knows history in advance; and He certainly does!  Indeed He has written down everything that we need to know (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:3-4)!  The “Owner’s Manual” even explains why bad things happen (Genesis 3; Romans 3:23; 6:23a; 8:21-22).  It also explains what God has done about this insurmountable problem; He sent His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to live a sinless life and die as the perfect sacrifice for sin (John 20:31; Romans 6:23b; 10:9-10).

One of the things I appreciate the most about this “Owner’s Manual” is that God has also included instructions that keep us running in tip-top condition – FOREVER.  You see, this “Owner’s Manual” is the exact and errorless guide to maintenance (how to have victory) and to our individual fuel needs (how to know and grow spiritually).  There is nothing more vital or practical than for us to consult the Owner’s Manual: God’s Word!

As much as I enjoy my motorcycle, my first passion is my wife and our six children.  Obviously, I am not all that mechanically inclined; I had to ask for help charging the battery.  What I’ve discovered though is that basic motorcycle maintenance is not nearly has complicated as my job as a husband and dad.  I am so thankful that God has spelled out His design and expectations for the Family, especially dads, in easy to understand terms!

Gentlemen:  Do you want to be a blessing to the ladies in your life this Mother’s Day?  Then resolve to consult the “Owner’s Manual” with the intent of understanding God’s design and desire for you as a husband and father.  A great place to start is in Ephesians 5:21-6:4 and Colossians 3:16-25.

Clegguart Mitchell