Obed – Worship and Service in the Shadows
Obed: A Worshipping Dad Who Served Faithfully
In the book of Ruth, Obed gets only a few verses. He’s not a headline figure—but he’s incredibly significant. He is the son of Boaz and Ruth, and the father of Jesse, who becomes the father of King David. Obed is part of the lineage that leads to Jesus Christ, yet he remains a dad in the shadows.
What do we know about him? Not much in terms of stories or achievements. But even his name—Obed—speaks volumes. It means worshipper and servant. And those two traits tell us all we need to know about the kind of father he was.
- He Modelled Worship
Worship isn’t just about singing on a Sunday—it’s a lifestyle. Obed was known as a worshipper, someone whose life pointed to God. In a world full of distractions, our children need to see us worship. Not just at church, but at home.
Do your kids ever see you with an open Bible? Do they hear worship music playing in the kitchen? Have they ever caught you praying or thanking God aloud?
These small moments shape their view of faith. When our children see us worship, it shows them who holds our heart. It teaches them that our strength doesn’t come from within, but from God.
I remember my daughter once noticing a faith-based post I’d shared online and commenting, “That’s from my dad.” It made me realise—they really are watching. And it matters.
- He Served the Lord
Obed also means servant. In his quiet, behind-the-scenes life, Obed served God. That likely meant service in his community, caring for others, helping the poor—whatever was needed.
As men who follow Jesus, we’re called not just to consume from the Church, but to contribute to it. Whether it’s lifting chairs, welcoming people at the door, helping in kids’ ministry, or leading a Bible study—our children need to see us doing something for the kingdom.
When they see us serve, they begin to understand that faith isn’t just about belief, it’s about action.
Living Like Obed
You don’t have to be loud to leave a legacy. You don’t have to be famous to change the future. Obed served quietly, but his son Jesse became the father of King David, and the great-grandfather of the Messiah.
That’s the power of worship and service. If you’re a dad who reads your Bible, turns up early to serve at church, prays at the dinner table, and sings (even off-key) to worship music—you’re doing better than you think.
God doesn’t overlook dads in the shadows. In fact, He often uses them most powerfully.
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