Fathering is hard work. It’s essential work. And it can be the greatest joy in life. Here are some thoughts to empower your work as a father.
Lead from the Front
In ancient times, a king would ride into battle ahead of his troops. His presence and shared hardships and dangers with his troops earned him great credibility and honor. He was the rallying point for his soldiers who would fight to the death to protect him.
Our cultural battle is just as grave. Fathers must lead their children through the battle lines of an amoral culture. We cannot lead with words alone. Fathers must be seen as committed and dedicated through their actions. We teach through words. We inspire through actions. Fathers must strive to show their devotion to God through everyday actions. Let your children see your dependence on God and your love for Jesus. Let them see you studying the Bible. Let them hear your prayers. Lead!
[bctt tweet=”Fathers must lead their children through the battle lines of an amoral culture.”]
Be Timeless
Every action you take today will resonate throughout future history. Sadly, it’s the failures that are often remembered most. Many scholars hold that Richard Nixon was an excellent President. His victory in the 1972 Presidential election was one of the biggest landslides in U.S. History. Yet, one series of events has tainted him for all history. What would Nixon have given if he could repeat those few crucial hours in the White House?
As you lead your children, remember that you are making memories. Even today, you probably remember stories, good and bad, about your father and grandfather. Your daily life is the foundation of your children’s memories. Remember the powerful words of Proverbs 22:6, “train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” Every action you take has the potential to form an enduring memory. How do you want to be remembered?
[bctt tweet=” Every action you take has the potential to form an enduring memory. “]
Deliver on Promises
Children are like the proverbial elephants – they remember everything. Choose promises carefully and only after considering your ability to deliver.
In an adult’s mind a promise about a weekend outing that doesn’t pan out is no big deal; it happens. But for the child who has looked forward to a getaway with a hard working dad that broken promise is huge. Don’t promise what you cannot deliver.
Quality and Quantity are Essential
A recent television commercial has a father declaring that he doesn’t get to spend much time with his children so he makes sure that every minute is quality. That’s a nice sentiment, but it doesn’t really hold water. Children need both quality and quantity of your time. [bctt tweet=”Sometimes a child just needs to know you are available.”] The world offers a false dichotomy. You can have quality or quantity but not both. How wrong!
Your job was here before you and will be here after you are gone. Don’t allow your children to pay the price for your absence. Their successes as adults will be remembered more than your advancement.
These tips will energize you, your wife and your children. Try them and you will be convinced of their importance. Your children need you more than you can imagine. Model godly parenting and you will see them reap the benefits.
Bryant Evans may be reached at bryant at preachersstudyblog.com. You can follow Bryant on Twitter @jbevans.
