Published by After reading an article by David McCasland, I was inspired to share some thoughts that I gleaned from his writing and from some personal reflection. And since this is our last weekday before we celebrate Father’s Day I figured this was a pretty good day to do it.
As fathers, we have many responsibilities, not only to our children but that is my focus today. One of the first that comes to mind is to raise a child up in the ways of the Lord and he will remember and stay in His ways as he ages (Pro. 22:6). The Bible is our guidebook for all things, including raising children. God shows us how we ought to teach our children, gives us examples of how we should live (or act), not just in front of our kids but with all people and situations, and tells us not to spoil our kids but raise them with discipline (Proverbs 13:24; 23:13). If only we all, myself included, were to use these perfect ‘guidelines’, what a much better world we would live in.
As our children grow our roles change in their lives. Though the role may change, it never ends. Praise and encouragement are profitable at any age. And the all powerful tool of prayer should be used from the day we learn of the impending birth to the end of our time here on earth with them.
Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. (Col. 3:21; Eph. 6:4b)
Heavenly Father,
I thank You for the honor and responsibility You have given me to be a father and grandfather. I pray that I will be more obedient to Your Word in my relationships with my children and grandchild, and in all things.
