Papa's Big Chair

When I was coming up, in almost every home I visited, there was this thing called "Daddy's Big Chair." The chair was usually in the room with the TV, and no one was allowed to sit in it but Daddy. Mom probably could get away with it, but allowing him his chair allowed her leverage for her own personal spot. 

The household of God has a similar chair. The Bible refers to it as His throne but does not really describe it. I cannot see it, so to me the chair idea is more metaphorical. In this world, I see the practical application of His big chair as an attitude—a place from which it can be determined what is best for everyone. It is easy to think that I have a right to sit there when someone behaves in a manner that I think is wrong. I sometimes forget that as a young adult, my lady friend and I could sit side by side in her father's chair. It is scary to imagine how big God's chair is.

I experience a rebirth as a son of God through Jesus Christ. Once I accept my position in His house, it is difficult to avoid applying my perspective on how others should conduct themselves. In my mind this is sitting in His chair. When I sit there, I inevitably redefine sin based on my perceptions and my goals. 

The word can become a tool in the hands of a person that believes that they have a right to the Father's chair. To apply His justice through my own judgment. The Bible has rules that I can apply to other people and feel that I am correct and have a right. The more I study, the more sure I am that I know how to act. As I look back over my life, I can see that much of the frustration and failures that mark my history come from the idea that I have a right to understand and control the things going on around me. 

Passing judgment on other people is, however, not the worst part. The Father's Chair has a greater price, and that is responsibility. If I lead someone astray, I am responsible for their failure. A person who makes a bad or dangerous decision because I misrepresented the position or attitude of His chair is my fault. 

A new member of the Family of God is very sensitive to their flaws and can be easily confused by my opinions. Me being a long-time member, I have overcome things that the new member does not yet understand. If I show disdain or impatience, I can cause a new member to see God as unforgiving. I make it a part of my daily regimen to remind myself. (For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23)

When I attempt to help my children, I keep in mind that I am not them. Each person is different and has a unique relationship with their parents. It is important for me to separate the notion of judgment from awareness. To be aware of my child's behavior allows me to guide them. Judgment requires me as a parent to act. Sitting in His Big Chair, passing judgment requires me to act upon the judged, taking His place. This is the sin of arrogance to which the Bible speaks directly. (Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. Matthew 7:1-2)